Rev. Wendell Anthony, the President of the Detroit Branch of the NAACP, introduced President Biden in Detroit at the NAACP Detroit Branch’s 69th annual Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner. However, Anthony has a history of associations with notorious antisemite Louis Farrakhan, who leads the Nation of Islam group. Farrakhan has spoken at Anthony’s church, Fellowship Chapel, at least three times in 2005, 2013, and 2015. The Anti-Defamation League has condemned these interactions, citing Farrakhan’s antisemitic rhetoric. Congressman John Conyers, Jr. apologized for attending one of Farrakhan’s speeches, condemning the racist, anti-semitic, and homophobic statements made by the minister.
During his speech at Fellowship Chapel, Farrakhan reportedly referred to Jewish people as “Satanic” and the “Synagogue of Satan.” He also made disparaging comments towards members of the Jewish community. Despite these remarks, individuals present at the event, including U.S. Rep. John Conyers and Detroit City Councilmember JoAnn Watson, did not publicly condemn Farrakhan’s hateful rhetoric. In addition to speaking at Anthony’s church, Farrakhan was also a guest speaker at a “Religious leaders’ breakfast” in 2004 and has ties to other events hosted by Anthony’s think tank. Anthony has praised Farrakhan in the past, calling him the only leader addressing moral issues in the community.
The White House has faced criticism for its ties to Farrakhan’s network, including a left-wing activist who hired one of Farrakhan’s associates visiting the White House multiple times. President Biden previously sat down for an interview with a radio show that promoted Farrakhan’s teachings, prompting backlash. Despite claims that individuals who praised Farrakhan would not be invited back to the White House, visitor logs showed otherwise. The White House has stated that President Biden unequivocally condemns Louis Farrakhan and the antisemitic hate he represents.
Following the recent event with President Biden, Fox News Digital reached out to the White House, NAACP, and Anthony’s Fellowship Chapel for comment, but did not receive an immediate response. The controversy surrounding Rev. Wendell Anthony’s previous associations with Louis Farrakhan and the Anti-Defamation League’s condemnation of such interactions have raised concerns about the NAACP leader’s past affiliations and the message this may send. Despite these controversies, President Biden has reiterated his commitment to condemning antisemitic hate and divisive rhetoric, calling for unity and understanding amongst all communities.
