Anti-Semitic Comments from Trayon White

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:
Yes, I've seen this undertone in a couple of other posts.....that the antisemitism isn't the main cause for concern, but rather the stupidity. If a Republican made a stupid anti-black comment, liberals would be up in arms if conservatives said, basically, "well, I'd like to see him removed for stupidity, not for anything he said against blacks."

Uh, no. The present occupant of 1600 Pa Avenue said he had no idea that reposting a picture of a star of david with a pile of money was antisemitic.

It is, sadly, credible that CM White actually did not know that the Rothschilds were Jewish. Because he is not someone who knows history, and I don't think he has ever learned it, or been genuinely curious about it. In fairness, he graduated Ballou, HS, from UM Eastern Shore, and the now defunct Southeastern U, not from private schools and UPenn, and is not a "stable genius".

So, er yeah, ignorance - horrible, disqualifying ignorance, but ignorance.

Why would he talk about the Rothschilds? The only context in which that name is invoked is anti-Semitic in nature. What other reason would there be? There are websites, videos and organizations devoted to promoting the Rothschilds conspiracy theory—. And it has to do with Jews. That is it. He knew this had to do with Jews. Sadly, this is what people discuss behind closed doors with their families and friends. If he made a reference to Rothschilds it is because he knew it had to do with being Jewish. Now I know how African Americans feel when people tell them they are imagining racism. It is really amazing to me that people have to be convinced that this is truly anti-Semitism. The guy has said other anti-Semitic things in the past. This is not a one off. He is an anti-Semite and should be forced to resign. Period. Stop making excuses for this creep. People need to take this stuff seriously.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:However you view it- anti-Semitic or not, it is still CRAZY, very immature, and just plain stupid. How is he in office?

Trayon White is David Duke with different skin color.

Equally ignorant, hateful, anti-Semite and unqualified for public office.

+ 100

We need strong words about this from our mayor and from the rest of the council. Half-assed apologies don't erase this. Hate and ignorance should never get a pass. When we criticize Trump, they are going to say "Look at DC...."

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:
Yes, I've seen this undertone in a couple of other posts.....that the antisemitism isn't the main cause for concern, but rather the stupidity. If a Republican made a stupid anti-black comment, liberals would be up in arms if conservatives said, basically, "well, I'd like to see him removed for stupidity, not for anything he said against blacks."

Uh, no. The present occupant of 1600 Pa Avenue said he had no idea that reposting a picture of a star of david with a pile of money was antisemitic.

It is, sadly, credible that CM White actually did not know that the Rothschilds were Jewish. Because he is not someone who knows history, and I don't think he has ever learned it, or been genuinely curious about it. In fairness, he graduated Ballou, HS, from UM Eastern Shore, and the now defunct Southeastern U, not from private schools and UPenn, and is not a "stable genius".

So, er yeah, ignorance - horrible, disqualifying ignorance, but ignorance.

Why would he talk about the Rothschilds? The only context in which that name is invoked is anti-Semitic in nature. What other reason would there be? There are websites, videos and organizations devoted to promoting the Rothschilds conspiracy theory—. And it has to do with Jews. That is it. He knew this had to do with Jews. Sadly, this is what people discuss behind closed doors with their families and friends. If he made a reference to Rothschilds it is because he knew it had to do with being Jewish. Now I know how African Americans feel when people tell them they are imagining racism. It is really amazing to me that people have to be convinced that this is truly anti-Semitism. The guy has said other anti-Semitic things in the past. This is not a one off. He is an anti-Semite and should be forced to resign. Period. Stop making excuses for this creep. People need to take this stuff seriously.

Yes, agree. I cannot tell you how many times I've heard an antisemtitc remark, only to told I'm "being too sensitive" or "you can't take these things too seriously." I once complained that someone spoke of "the k*kes," and was told that it's not so bad. It's like there's an unwritten rule around DC that antisemtism will be met with a little slap on the wrist, if that, while all other forms of bigotry are totally in accepted.

And I agree he should be forced to resign. This isn't the first time he's complained about 'the Rothschilds. I for one would love to see black Democratic officials, who aim to protect their constituents against racism, extend that same concern to Jews - and get rid of the guy. But just you wait. I'm sure that figure that "the Jews" will settle down in a few days and this will all blow over.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:
Yes, I've seen this undertone in a couple of other posts.....that the antisemitism isn't the main cause for concern, but rather the stupidity. If a Republican made a stupid anti-black comment, liberals would be up in arms if conservatives said, basically, "well, I'd like to see him removed for stupidity, not for anything he said against blacks."

Uh, no. The present occupant of 1600 Pa Avenue said he had no idea that reposting a picture of a star of david with a pile of money was antisemitic.

It is, sadly, credible that CM White actually did not know that the Rothschilds were Jewish. Because he is not someone who knows history, and I don't think he has ever learned it, or been genuinely curious about it. In fairness, he graduated Ballou, HS, from UM Eastern Shore, and the now defunct Southeastern U, not from private schools and UPenn, and is not a "stable genius".

So, er yeah, ignorance - horrible, disqualifying ignorance, but ignorance.

Why would he talk about the Rothschilds? The only context in which that name is invoked is anti-Semitic in nature. What other reason would there be? There are websites, videos and organizations devoted to promoting the Rothschilds conspiracy theory—. And it has to do with Jews. That is it. He knew this had to do with Jews. Sadly, this is what people discuss behind closed doors with their families and friends. If he made a reference to Rothschilds it is because he knew it had to do with being Jewish. Now I know how African Americans feel when people tell them they are imagining racism. It is really amazing to me that people have to be convinced that this is truly anti-Semitism. The guy has said other anti-Semitic things in the past. This is not a one off. He is an anti-Semite and should be forced to resign. Period. Stop making excuses for this creep. People need to take this stuff seriously.

happens a lot on this board when it comes to anti semitism. it appears that the argument is that it is all "okay" as long as Jews aren't being physically hurt. it's really unbelievable in this day and age.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:However you view it- anti-Semitic or not, it is still CRAZY, very immature, and just plain stupid. How is he in office?

Trayon White is David Duke with different skin color.

Equally ignorant, hateful, anti-Semite and unqualified for public office.

+ 100

We need strong words about this from our mayor and from the rest of the council. Half-assed apologies don't erase this. Hate and ignorance should never get a pass. When we criticize Trump, they are going to say "Look at DC...."

Yup.

Between this and erecting a statue for Marion Barry, and even the Farrakhan adulation, Dems have little credibility to attack Trump.

[Anonymous]

I have gone back and forth on this since the news broke. I think at this point, he has to resign and the Council needs to put pressure on him to force the decision.

We are in open and inclusive city and the Capital of the United States of American. Our President notwithstanding, we need to set the standard and be the model for the country.

Now is not the time tolerate any "-isms" on any level.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:
Yes, I've seen this undertone in a couple of other posts.....that the antisemitism isn't the main cause for concern, but rather the stupidity. If a Republican made a stupid anti-black comment, liberals would be up in arms if conservatives said, basically, "well, I'd like to see him removed for stupidity, not for anything he said against blacks."

Uh, no. The present occupant of 1600 Pa Avenue said he had no idea that reposting a picture of a star of david with a pile of money was antisemitic.

It is, sadly, credible that CM White actually did not know that the Rothschilds were Jewish. Because he is not someone who knows history, and I don't think he has ever learned it, or been genuinely curious about it. In fairness, he graduated Ballou, HS, from UM Eastern Shore, and the now defunct Southeastern U, not from private schools and UPenn, and is not a "stable genius".

So, er yeah, ignorance - horrible, disqualifying ignorance, but ignorance.

Why would he talk about the Rothschilds? The only context in which that name is invoked is anti-Semitic in nature. What other reason would there be? There are websites, videos and organizations devoted to promoting the Rothschilds conspiracy theory—. And it has to do with Jews. That is it. He knew this had to do with Jews. Sadly, this is what people discuss behind closed doors with their families and friends. If he made a reference to Rothschilds it is because he knew it had to do with being Jewish. Now I know how African Americans feel when people tell them they are imagining racism. It is really amazing to me that people have to be convinced that this is truly anti-Semitism. The guy has said other anti-Semitic things in the past. This is not a one off. He is an anti-Semite and should be forced to resign. Period. Stop making excuses for this creep. People need to take this stuff seriously.

happens a lot on this board when it comes to anti semitism. it appears that the argument is that it is all "okay" as long as Jews aren't being physically hurt. it's really unbelievable in this day and age.

Yup. I've seen some things said against Jews on this forum that made my skin crawl. And this board is populated overwhelmingly by liberals, who are supposedly against bigotry. Different measure for the Jews apparently.

This whole episode has made my blood boil. Why aren't the black leaders calling for his resignation,,and showing that antisemitism - and not just anti-black racism - is not acceptable? Or would they rather invite Farrakan to their next meeting?

[Anonymous]

I posted earlier my amazement that there wasn't more reaction to his belief in crazy ideas like weather control. In making that observation, I did not mean to imply that I didn't abhor the antisemitism and think that alone was resignation-worthy.
At this point, people not living in Ward 8 should be putting pressure on their reps to publicly call for his resignation. Can't believe how tepid they are being in their responses.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Chairman Mendelson’s Statement Regarding Comments by Councilmember Trayon White

Chairman Phil Mendelson gave the following statement from the dais at today’s Committee of the Whole meeting, regarding Councilmember Trayon White’s controversial comments.

“Last Friday Councilmember Trayon White posted a statement on social media that has been widely condemned, and rightfully so. I think I can speak for every member that the remark was inappropriate and evoked anti-Semitic rhetoric from the past.

“Councilmember White has apologized for the remark. Many councilmembers have said they accept his apology, and I find it to be sincere and unequivocal.

“Nonetheless, this is an important moment to restate the position of the Council and the view of its members that intolerance and prejudiced words have no place in our community. Time and again we have spoken out against bigotry, intolerance, prejudice, anti-Semitism, and racism. Indeed, this Council participated in a training last week focused on racial equity because we believe this issue is serious.

“Repeatedly, we have adopted legislation and resolutions to promote tolerance – racial, religious, and ethnic – and to celebrate diversity. Our view – the Council’s view – has not changed.

“Mr. White has apologized. Yesterday he and I met with Rabbi Glazer to discuss the broader context of anti-Semitism. We agreed, and I have asked Council Secretary to hold a meeting next Tuesday between the Council and leaders of the Jewish community.

“Sometimes we – each of us – have to work harder to understand the experience and perspectives of the many communities that make up our rich and precious diversity. This is one of those times, and I am hopeful that we, all of us, have learned from this moment.”

Nobody has any thoughts?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I have gone back and forth on this since the news broke. I think at this point, he has to resign and the Council needs to put pressure on him to force the decision.

We are in open and inclusive city and the Capital of the United States of American. Our President notwithstanding, we need to set the standard and be the model for the country.

Now is not the time tolerate any "-isms" on any level.

A black woman on this board actually came out yesterday and said that she has no issue with anti-Semitic Democrats in leadership roles. Her twisted reasoning was that since Pence is anti-gay, it's fair for blacks to be anti-Jew. (Obviously, she's an antisemite in search of an excuse for it, but that one takes the cake.)

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Chairman Mendelson’s Statement Regarding Comments by Councilmember Trayon White

Chairman Phil Mendelson gave the following statement from the dais at today’s Committee of the Whole meeting, regarding Councilmember Trayon White’s controversial comments.

“Last Friday Councilmember Trayon White posted a statement on social media that has been widely condemned, and rightfully so. I think I can speak for every member that the remark was inappropriate and evoked anti-Semitic rhetoric from the past.

“Councilmember White has apologized for the remark. Many councilmembers have said they accept his apology, and I find it to be sincere and unequivocal.

“Nonetheless, this is an important moment to restate the position of the Council and the view of its members that intolerance and prejudiced words have no place in our community. Time and again we have spoken out against bigotry, intolerance, prejudice, anti-Semitism, and racism. Indeed, this Council participated in a training last week focused on racial equity because we believe this issue is serious.

“Repeatedly, we have adopted legislation and resolutions to promote tolerance – racial, religious, and ethnic – and to celebrate diversity. Our view – the Council’s view – has not changed.

“Mr. White has apologized. Yesterday he and I met with Rabbi Glazer to discuss the broader context of anti-Semitism. We agreed, and I have asked Council Secretary to hold a meeting next Tuesday between the Council and leaders of the Jewish community.

“Sometimes we – each of us – have to work harder to understand the experience and perspectives of the many communities that make up our rich and precious diversity. This is one of those times, and I am hopeful that we, all of us, have learned from this moment.”

Nobody has any thoughts?

My thought is that a PR firm helped them prepare a written statement to recover from yet another indication of antisemitisim among Democrats, and specifically black Democrats.

In this case, White has made previous antisemtic remarks, and it's time that liberals who claim to be against bigotry put their money where their mouth is. It is obvious that this guy is an anti-Semite, and he needs to resign. Otherwise, the message is......"Democrats can talk shit about the Jews, push out hateful conspiracy theories, and then just apologize. After all, they're only Jews."

Nope. Democrats need to take as hard a line against anti-Jew remarks as they would if a white Democrat said something henious about blacks.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Chairman Mendelson’s Statement Regarding Comments by Councilmember Trayon White

Chairman Phil Mendelson gave the following statement from the dais at today’s Committee of the Whole meeting, regarding Councilmember Trayon White’s controversial comments.

“Last Friday Councilmember Trayon White posted a statement on social media that has been widely condemned, and rightfully so. I think I can speak for every member that the remark was inappropriate and evoked anti-Semitic rhetoric from the past.

“Councilmember White has apologized for the remark. Many councilmembers have said they accept his apology, and I find it to be sincere and unequivocal.

“Nonetheless, this is an important moment to restate the position of the Council and the view of its members that intolerance and prejudiced words have no place in our community. Time and again we have spoken out against bigotry, intolerance, prejudice, anti-Semitism, and racism. Indeed, this Council participated in a training last week focused on racial equity because we believe this issue is serious.

“Repeatedly, we have adopted legislation and resolutions to promote tolerance – racial, religious, and ethnic – and to celebrate diversity. Our view – the Council’s view – has not changed.

“Mr. White has apologized. Yesterday he and I met with Rabbi Glazer to discuss the broader context of anti-Semitism. We agreed, and I have asked Council Secretary to hold a meeting next Tuesday between the Council and leaders of the Jewish community.

“Sometimes we – each of us – have to work harder to understand the experience and perspectives of the many communities that make up our rich and precious diversity. This is one of those times, and I am hopeful that we, all of us, have learned from this moment.”

Nobody has any thoughts?

My thought is that a PR firm helped them prepare a written statement to recover from yet another indication of antisemitisim among Democrats, and specifically black Democrats.

In this case, White has made previous antisemtic remarks, and it's time that liberals who claim to be against bigotry put their money where their mouth is. It is obvious that this guy is an anti-Semite, and he needs to resign. Otherwise, the message is......"Democrats can talk shit about the Jews, push out hateful conspiracy theories, and then just apologize. After all, they're only Jews."

Nope. Democrats need to take as hard a line against anti-Jew remarks as they would if a white Democrat said something henious about blacks.

What are your thoughts on Councilman Mendelson not taking a hard line?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:
Yes, I've seen this undertone in a couple of other posts.....that the antisemitism isn't the main cause for concern, but rather the stupidity. If a Republican made a stupid anti-black comment, liberals would be up in arms if conservatives said, basically, "well, I'd like to see him removed for stupidity, not for anything he said against blacks."

Uh, no. The present occupant of 1600 Pa Avenue said he had no idea that reposting a picture of a star of david with a pile of money was antisemitic.

It is, sadly, credible that CM White actually did not know that the Rothschilds were Jewish. Because he is not someone who knows history, and I don't think he has ever learned it, or been genuinely curious about it. In fairness, he graduated Ballou, HS, from UM Eastern Shore, and the now defunct Southeastern U, not from private schools and UPenn, and is not a "stable genius".

So, er yeah, ignorance - horrible, disqualifying ignorance, but ignorance.

Why would he talk about the Rothschilds? The only context in which that name is invoked is anti-Semitic in nature. What other reason would there be? There are websites, videos and organizations devoted to promoting the Rothschilds conspiracy theory—. And it has to do with Jews. That is it. He knew this had to do with Jews. Sadly, this is what people discuss behind closed doors with their families and friends. If he made a reference to Rothschilds it is because he knew it had to do with being Jewish. Now I know how African Americans feel when people tell them they are imagining racism. It is really amazing to me that people have to be convinced that this is truly anti-Semitism. The guy has said other anti-Semitic things in the past. This is not a one off. He is an anti-Semite and should be forced to resign. Period. Stop making excuses for this creep. People need to take this stuff seriously.

happens a lot on this board when it comes to anti semitism. it appears that the argument is that it is all "okay" as long as Jews aren't being physically hurt. it's really unbelievable in this day and age.

Yup. I've seen some things said against Jews on this forum that made my skin crawl. And this board is populated overwhelmingly by liberals, who are supposedly against bigotry. Different measure for the Jews apparently.

This whole episode has made my blood boil. Why aren't the black leaders calling for his resignation,,and showing that antisemitism - and not just anti-black racism - is not acceptable? Or would they rather invite Farrakan to their next meeting?

NP.

I don't disagree with anything you say at all, only I'm surprised that you seem to be connecting Liberalism with anti-semitism as if it were a new thing.

I see movements on campus by Liberal students that are strongly anti-semitic. Pro-palestinian. Etc.

This is not a new thing. Also not a new thing is the fact that many, many Liberals are insanely intolerant, and at the same time completely oblivious/self-justifying.

[Anonymous]

I'm appalled by Council's weak sauce reaction. Agree with PPs that had this been an anti-black sentiment voiced by a Council member there would have been immediate swift pressure for resignation.

[jsteele]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Chairman Mendelson’s Statement Regarding Comments by Councilmember Trayon White

Chairman Phil Mendelson gave the following statement from the dais at today’s Committee of the Whole meeting, regarding Councilmember Trayon White’s controversial comments.

“Last Friday Councilmember Trayon White posted a statement on social media that has been widely condemned, and rightfully so. I think I can speak for every member that the remark was inappropriate and evoked anti-Semitic rhetoric from the past.

“Councilmember White has apologized for the remark. Many councilmembers have said they accept his apology, and I find it to be sincere and unequivocal.

“Nonetheless, this is an important moment to restate the position of the Council and the view of its members that intolerance and prejudiced words have no place in our community. Time and again we have spoken out against bigotry, intolerance, prejudice, anti-Semitism, and racism. Indeed, this Council participated in a training last week focused on racial equity because we believe this issue is serious.

“Repeatedly, we have adopted legislation and resolutions to promote tolerance – racial, religious, and ethnic – and to celebrate diversity. Our view – the Council’s view – has not changed.

“Mr. White has apologized. Yesterday he and I met with Rabbi Glazer to discuss the broader context of anti-Semitism. We agreed, and I have asked Council Secretary to hold a meeting next Tuesday between the Council and leaders of the Jewish community.

“Sometimes we – each of us – have to work harder to understand the experience and perspectives of the many communities that make up our rich and precious diversity. This is one of those times, and I am hopeful that we, all of us, have learned from this moment.”

Nobody has any thoughts?

I think this illustrates the point I was making in my earlier post about why focusing on the stupidity of White's remarks was more important than focusing on his anti-Semitism. Because White offered an apology and started working with Jewish groups to "gain understanding", he provided an easy out for his Council colleagues. As Mendelson says in his statement, "Many councilmembers have said they accept his apology, and I find it to be sincere and unequivocal." The general reaction seems to be, "White apologized, case closed." Based on the reaction of most Council Members, you would think that when White said that the Rothschilds were controlling our climate in order to make money, his only error was singling out a Jewish family. Had White not been ignorant of the Rothschilds' religion, it seems that his statement would have been otherwise acceptable to the Council. Certainly Mendelson makes no objection to the unscientific and moronic nature of White's remarks.

I think the explanation for the Council Members' position is pretty obvious. It is easy to condemn anti-Semitism and accept White's apology. But, pointing out that White is a idiotic conspiracy theorist on the order of the Pizzagaters creates a much more difficult situation. What do you do about that? There are no easy answers. That's not something that can be adequately addressed with a simple press release. Have you ever known a politician to choose a difficult and probably futile path when an easy alternative exists? I haven't and DC's elected officials are definitely not eager to do so.

All we can do is to insist that an apology and new engagement with the Jewish community is not enough. Conspiracy theorists simply don't belong on the Council.