What we saw was an educated billionaire making a Nazi salute—twice—on live TV, in a country long held as a safe haven for those fleeing tyranny. No, there’s nothing “Roman” about it. No, there’s no room for interpretation. Watch the video if you doubt the picture. And to all those that are rationalizing, saying that we misunderstood, that it wasn’t what we think it was, I’ll say this: any decent human being who would have done something that ended up being misconstrued into a fascist gesture would have explained themselves and apologized to those they hurt. Choosing to troll people on your own social network with some variation of ‘Calling people Nazis is tired.’ instead is the lame reaction of an hurt ego.
And now, what do we do about it? Do we ignore it, isolate ourselves, and move on, tired of the news? Do we pretend it’s okay, hoping to be on the side of those who benefit from the chaos? Do we stay silent, afraid of the consequences of speaking up—afraid for our families, our jobs, or of losing friends? Do we do what Martin Niemöller warned against in his poem:
First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out – because I was not Socialist. Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out – Because I was not a Trade Unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out – Because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me – and there was no one left to speak for me.
I can’t remember a time I’ve been more disgusted by something I saw on TV. And no, this is not faux “woke outrage.” This is me remembering all the Armistice commemorations on French TV when I was a kid, asking what had happened. Being told how six million people, probably more, were sent to their deaths in extermination camps. Meeting an Auschwitz survivor in one of our history classes—a number tattooed on his wrist—and being taught that in my country, Switzerland, some had bowed and collaborated, while others had done their small part to save those who could be saved. And then hearing these words, repeated like a mantra: As long as we remember, it can’t happen again. And yet here we are, 80 years later, watching a man make a gesture we thought we would never see again, watching other minorities being painted as the reason for all our problems.
So, what does a person like me—Western, white, male, not even a citizen of the country in question—do? This is a question I’ve asked myself all day. It feels like taking a stand, voicing my disgust and my opinion, is not enough. It isn’t. But it’s a start* Our outrage should never be silenced, and we should all use our platforms to speak up. Which is why I’m writing this and sharing it here.
We must lead the way with kindness and take care of each other, especially the most vulnerable among us. Rebuild a movement of moderates. Unite again in our diversity, instead of letting ourselves be divided. Because honestly, there are enough resources on this planet for everyone to live a dignified, safe, and peaceful life—if only we truly wanted it to happen.
-S.
*If you have any ideas on how to use my energy for a kinder future, reach out.
