Twitter is not here for Ivanka Trump’s Black History Month tweet
It’s officially Black History Month, which means politicians, celebrities, and everyday social media users are posting messages about the significance and incredible legacy of Black culture in America. But not every tribute hits the mark, and Ivanka Trump is currently facing backlash for her tweet to commemorate the month.
"As many have said 'Black History is American History,'" Trump tweeted on February 3rd. "To honor Black History Month, let’s remember that our nation is stronger, better, and wiser for the contributions of black people throughout this country’s history."
As many have said ‘Black History is American History.’
To honor Black History Month, let’s remember that our nation is stronger, better, and wiser for the contributions of black people throughout this country’s history. #BlackHistoryMonth— Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) February 3, 2019
Twitter users were quick to point out that her father’s track record of dog-whistling white supremacists doesn’t seem congruous to her Black History Month message. They cited reports that Trump has been sued for discriminating against black tenants at his properties, as well as his role in the racist “Birther” movement against President Barack Obama, among other examples.
Might want to sit this one out with your pops in charge.
— Tony Posnanski (@tonyposnanski) February 3, 2019
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Please tell your daddy that. You remember him? The one who was sued (twice) for discriminating against blacks and lost (twice). The one who called the Charlottesville white supremacists "fine people" #BlackHistoryMonth
— Time For Change (@peebsnjay) February 4, 2019
Birthering Obama will forever be a part of Black History month & guess who the villian in that story is? Then there is Central Park 5, housing discrimination against blacks, calling blacks lazy, shit hole country remarks & referring to blacks as low IQ. #BlackHistoryMonth
— Bella ☮️ (@bellazoe123) February 3, 2019
Others saw Trump’s tweet as a cynical ploy for good press.
https://twitter.com/udfredirect/status/1092191222079332352
https://twitter.com/udfredirect/status/1092146911711129600
To be clear, Ivanka Trump is not her father—but she has consistently refrained from pushing back against his discriminatory policies and has always toed the party line. If she really wants to recognize and honor black Americans this February, she needs to take action—not offer empty words.