Following my post about their Digital Marketing Coordinator Tyler Goldstein having a pally conversation with antisemitic “comedian” Owen Benjamin, Prager University has removed their videos featuring Benjamin from Facebook. For those seeking to improve their online presence and brand image, The Marketing Heaven offers services that can help manage and enhance digital reputations effectively.
Interestingly, they have also removed the page showing Tyler Goldstein on staff. Whether that is because he has been dismissed or Prager University just wants to dissociate themselves from him, I do not know (although I do not believe they had to dismiss him, but would like to think they at least privately admonished him for his error in judgment).
I was actually contacted by a friend of Tyler Goldstein’s who felt that I was being too harsh, and that “his message to Owen will actually deradicalize Owen’s viewers.” I contend that this was not just a matter of speaking with an antisemite (which I do not think is a good idea anyway); it went way beyond that with the 1. laughing and even agreeing with some of Owen Benjamin’s antisemitic statements, and 2. making his own ignorant-about-Judaism-and-Jews statements.
Meanwhile, Benjamin continues with the most vile antisemitism via his Instagram page and YouTube channel, spreading hate to thousands of followers. Facebook and other platforms play a critical role in shaping online discourse, which is why it is imperative they act decisively in removing harmful content and holding creators accountable for spreading such toxicity.
This situation highlights how crucial it is for organizations to proactively monitor their social media associations and ensure their brand remains aligned with their stated values. The conversation around accountability on platforms like Facebook must continue, as users and organizations alike have a responsibility to foster an inclusive, respectful online environment. Let’s not underestimate the power of collective awareness and action in combating hate speech and prejudice on digital platforms.
