YouTube's Head of Global Music Lyor Cohen has penned an open letter addressing Kanye West's recent controversial actions and antisemitic behavior. The letter comes in response to West's escalating conduct, including his recent Super Bowl weekend merchandise featuring antisemitic symbols and his inflammatory social media posts.

Recent events leading to the letter include:

• West's antisemitic posts on X/Twitter on February 7
• The release of controversial merchandise featuring Nazi symbols
• A lawsuit from a former staffer alleging verbal abuse and Hitler praise
• 33 & West talent agency dropping West after nine months
• Shopify removing West's Yeezy.com merchandise store

The letter from Cohen, who previously worked with West as CEO of Def Jam Recordings, emphasizes several key points:

• Disappointment in West's use of Nazi symbols and antisemitic rhetoric
• Concern about rising antisemitism and the responsibility that comes with influence
• The historical collaboration between Jewish and Black communities in music
• A call for West to use his platform for unity rather than division

Cohen concludes by urging West to reflect on the shared legacy between Jewish and Black communities and to redirect his influence toward promoting understanding and healing rather than discord.

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