“Michigan State Apologizes for Displaying Picture of Adolf Hitler: Confronting Historical Symbols in the Modern Era”

** | New York Times**
*November 1, 2021*

Michigan State University is facing widespread condemnation after a picture of Adolf Hitler was displayed on the videoboard during a trivia quiz before their football game against the University of Michigan on Saturday. The image, which featured a trivia question about Hitler’s birthplace, sparked outrage and calls for accountability. The university has since issued an apology, but the incident raises important questions about the appropriate use of historical symbols, the responsibility of institutions in promoting inclusivity, and the dangers of historical ignorance.

### A Failure of Institutional Values

The display of the Hitler image at Spartan Stadium has been widely criticized for its insensitivity and the distress it caused among the Jewish community and other marginalized groups on campus. The image not only disregarded the atrocities committed by Hitler and the Nazi regime but also demonstrated a failure of Michigan State University to uphold its purported institutional values.

In an email to alumni, Interim President Teresa K. Woodruff expressed her deep regret over the incident, acknowledging that it made many in the university community feel alienated and unsafe. She emphasized the need for a full review of the event, promising to take necessary steps to ensure that the university’s actions align with its values. President Woodruff also pledged to work closely with the Jewish community and minority populations to foster an inclusive and welcoming environment on campus.

### Historical Symbols and their Complexities

The incident at Michigan State University raises important questions about the use of historical symbols in public spaces and the responsibilities that come with displaying them. While it is crucial to remember and confront history’s darker elements, it should be done in a thoughtful and responsible manner.

Floris van Pallandt, the creator of The Quiz Channel, the YouTube page that provided the trivia content for the game, defended the question about Hitler’s birthplace as legitimate in a historical context. While it is true that understanding history’s darker facets is essential, using a trivia question about Hitler’s birthplace in a live stadium setting may not have been the most appropriate choice. Institutions must exercise caution and sensitivity when selecting content and consider the potential impact on diverse audiences.

### Strengthened Screening Procedures and Accountability

Michigan State University has correctly acknowledged the need for stronger screening procedures regarding videoboard content to prevent similar incidents in the future. As the university severs ties with the third-party source responsible for the offensive content, it should thoroughly review its selection criteria and ensure that all content aligns with its values of inclusivity and respect.

Additionally, this incident also calls for a deeper examination of the accountability of institutions and their partnerships. The unauthorized use of content from The Quiz Channel raises concerns about the university’s vetting process and the potential harms that can arise from such associations. Institutions must be diligent in their due diligence when engaging with external sources to uphold their standards and values.

### The Broader Context

This incident at Michigan State University is not isolated but occurs amidst a backdrop of heightened tensions on college campuses related to the Israel-Gaza conflict and concerns about rising antisemitism and Islamophobia. These issues demand careful attention and proactive efforts from university administrations to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all students.

### A Lesson in Learning from History

In conclusion, the incident at Michigan State University serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible historical education and institutional accountability. History cannot be ignored or sanitized, but it must be approached with sensitivity and context. Institutions must also take proactive steps to evaluate their processes, strengthen screening practices, and engage in meaningful dialogue with affected communities. Only through these concerted efforts can universities truly uphold their values and foster an inclusive environment for all students.