The artist Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, is facing accusations of spreading antisemitic conspiracy theories and engaging in disturbing behavior at his troubled private Christian school, Donda Academy, according to a lawsuit filed by a former employee. The suit alleges that Ye compared himself to Hitler, made discriminatory comments towards Black people, and expressed wanting to shave students’ heads and lock them in cages during a meeting with staff and children. Ye also allegedly used $2 million of the school’s budget for a trip to Paris and stiffed workers after his clothing brand, Yeezy, faced financial challenges.
During a one-on-one meeting with the former employee, Ye reportedly simulated masturbation while watching a movie and threatened to punch him in the face. The employee, Trevor Phillips, was eventually fired by Ye over an issue with the school garden, despite expressing gratitude for the job due to his daughter attending Donda and having a medical condition. The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, seeks more than $35,000 in damages and includes allegations of discrimination, retaliation, and wrongful termination.
The lawsuit filed by Phillips adds to previous allegations of misconduct and bizarre behavior at Donda Academy, including claims that students were only allowed to eat sushi for lunch, windows were empty because Ye disliked glass, and various restrictions were placed on classroom materials. Former teachers and an ex-assistant principal have also filed lawsuits against Ye and the school, alleging discrimination and wrongful termination. A trial in one of the lawsuits is scheduled to begin in April 2025.
Despite the allegations, a lawyer for Ye has disputed the claims about Donda Academy, calling descriptions of the school as a “dystopian institution” designed to cater to Ye’s whims false. The lawyer stated that the allegations did a disservice to the school’s current staff, students, and parents who have had positive experiences at the school. Representatives for Ye and attorneys for Donda Academy have not yet commented on the lawsuit or the allegations made against Ye.
The troubling accusations against Ye and his behavior at Donda Academy paint a concerning picture of the rapper’s involvement with the school. His alleged actions, including spreading antisemitic conspiracy theories and engaging in discriminatory behavior, have raised serious concerns about the environment created at the institution. As the legal proceedings continue, more details may emerge about the extent of Ye’s involvement with Donda Academy and the impact of his actions on the staff and students.
