Dear Jewish New Orleans,
By now, some of you have heard that Ye (formerly named Kanye West) is scheduled to perform at the Caesars Superdome on Friday, August 28. We know this news has raised real concern across our community, and we want to share what we know, what we’ve been doing, and how we’re coming together in response.
Background
Over the past several years, Ye has repeatedly used his platform to spread antisemitic conspiracy theories, praise Adolf Hitler, promote hateful stereotypes about Jews, sell and promote merchandise featuring Nazi imagery and racist slogans, and amplify extremist narratives. This poses real risks to the Jewish community and deeply impacts all minority groups. Extremist groups have repeatedly cited and celebrated his remarks. He has offered apologies at points along the way that haven’t always held, and some of his public struggles have been tied to disclosed mental health challenges, which is worth naming even as it doesn’t excuse the harm his words have caused.
Our ongoing concerns are that a segment of his fanbase has rallied around the phrase, “Ye is right,” using it to spread antisemitic rhetoric and continues to celebrate and make use of his 2025 song, “Heil Hitler.” The impact of his racist and antisemitic statements and music continues despite apologies.
Our Response
Given this history, leaders from local synagogues and Jewish organizations came together to coordinate a unified response, one focused on ensuring safety and security and making sure this concert doesn’t become a platform for hate. The first step was a joint letter to Legends Global, the company that manages the Superdome. While the Superdome is owned by the State, Legends Global is responsible for its management and operations.
In the letter, we asked Legends Global to clearly state that antisemitism will not be condoned at this event, and to obtain assurances that neither the song commonly known as “Heil Hitler,” nor any modified version of it, would be performed. In addition, we asked that no merchandise promoting Nazi ideology or other antisemitic messages be sold or distributed.
Legends Global responded and confirmed that:
- Contractual requirements have been obtained to ensure the event does not include the hateful rhetoric, songs, or merchandise we identified.
- They are closely monitoring the artist’s current tour, which includes reviewing nightly setlists and speaking directly with peer stadium managers, and have not identified concerning statements or actions to date. They have retained the right to act before, during, or after the New Orleans show if the artist breaches the contractual morality clause.
- Venue leadership and event-day staff will be trained by the ADL Center on Extremism on recognizing symbols most frequently used by a variety of hateful groups and movements. The training will help staff enforce the venue’s zero-tolerance policy toward attendees who display hate symbols or engage in antisemitic behavior.
In addition to working directly with Legends Global on pre-event messaging and event staff education, we will share relevant background information with local law enforcement.
Celebrating Jewish Community & Life
The rest of our response centers on something just as important as security and accountability: Jewish joy, education, and community. What better way to answer hate than by celebrating Jewish life, together, in public, and without fear.
- Friday, August 28 through Sunday, August 30, Free Admission at The Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience (MSJE): MSJE will be opening its doors to all who want to learn more about our Jewish history and community. We’re grateful to MSJE for this tremendous gift to New Orleans. Additional security will be present. If you haven’t visited MSJE yet or in a while, here’s a great opportunity to boost your Southern Jewish pride.
- Friday, August 28, Shabbat Services: We encourage everyone to gather wherever they choose to worship. Touro Synagogue is hosting the last Summer Union Shabbat of the season, bringing together our Reform congregations. Please check with your place of worship to confirm service times.
- Sunday, August 30, The Daughter of Auschwitz: An Evening with Tova Friedman: Join one of the youngest living Holocaust survivors, Tova Friedman, for a meaningful evening. Doors: 6:00 PM, Event starts: 7:00 PM. Register here: http://jewishlouisiana.com/tova
There is significant strength in showing up together, in whatever way feels right for you and your family. We are grateful to the community partners and leaders who have participated in these conversations and continuously prioritize the safety and wellbeing of Jewish New Orleans.
In community,
The Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans
Jewish Community Relations Council
Anti-Defamation League, South Central
