A Michigan priest has lost his position after imitating Elon Musk’s controversial salute, viewed by many as resembling the Nazi salute, during his speech at the National Pro-Life Summit.
Calvin Robinson, previously serving with the Anglican Catholic Church (ACC) in Grand Rapids, was dismissed after his actions went viral on social media. The incident occurred on January 25, 2025, when Robinson concluded his speech by thumping his chest, raising his arm straight out, and saying, "My heart goes out to you," echoing Musk’s words during his January 20 address. The gesture, described by critics as reminiscent of the German Nazi salute, drew laughter and applause from the audience of pro-life activists but sparked immediate backlash.
The ACC released a statement on January 29 announcing Robinson’s defrocking, citing previous warnings about his online trolling behavior. "While we cannot say what was in Mr. Robinson’s heart when he did this, his action appears to have been an attempt to curry favor with certain elements of the American political right by provoking its opposition," the statement read. It strongly condemned any mimicking of Nazi salutes, stating, "We believe...that those who mimic the Nazi salute, even as a joke or an attempt to troll their opponents, trivialize the horror of the Holocaust and diminish the sacrifice of those who fought against its perpetrators."
Robinson’s salute followed Musk’s gestures during the inauguration celebrations, where critics had already claimed it bore similarities to Nazi rhetoric. Musk, who has denied any malicious intent behind his gesture, stated via social media, "Frankly, they need to do some serious rewriting. The 'everyone is Hitler' narrative is becoming so tiresome."
Post-incident, Robinson took to social media to clarify his intentions. "I am not a Nazi... My attempt at dry wit, in...that typical British way, was not a joke at the expense of WWII, nor an admission of my membership in the Nationalist Socialist Party," he wrote, defending it as satire aimed at his critics. He insisted, "Context is key, but sometimes people ignore it to confirm their own prejudices." His remarks were met with divisive reactions, with some supporting his claims of humor, whereas others perceived them as insensitivity toward historical atrocities.
The Anglican Catholic Church emphasized its commitment to Christian values and reiterated its position against antisemitism, expressing concern about any actions trivializing the events of the Holocaust. "The Holocaust was...a regime of evil men," the church’s statement said, reflecting on the serious tone surrounding discussions of hate symbols and gestures.
Robinson, who was once also known for his provocative commentary and controversial views on various societal issues, had been warned about similar conduct previously. He has faced scrutiny for divisive statements associated with far-right politics and has had affiliations with different Anglican sects throughout his career, often moving from one conservative jurisdiction to another. His outspoken views led to conflicts over his membership and performance within traditional church structures.
The incident is not the first time such gestures have garnered public scrutiny. Following Musk’s original display, various observers have debated the gesture's intent. The Anti-Defamation League labeled it as "awkward," cautioning the public against assumptions about intention. Critics argued such gestures, from high-profile figures, can incite extremist interpretations regardless of their declared meanings.
During his speech, Robinson called for pro-life action and framed it within the broader cultural battles he perceives, asserting, "This is the last stand of Christendom. It is make or break time. The whole of the old world is dead. Every country in Europe is embracing death. America is the only country fighting for life." Yet, his closing gesture dampened his message, leading to severe backlash and eventual removal from his priestly duties.
Both Robinson and Musk now find themselves at the centre of heated discussions surrounding free speech, contemporary conservative movements, and the lasting scars of history. Musk's remarks and actions resonate differently across political lines, often culminating in heated debates over the interpretation of intent. Robinson’s case, punctuated by his quick removal from the ACC, serves as both a cautionary tale and highlight of the discussions surrounding humor, politics, and respect for history.
The Anglican Catholic Church's decision to revoke Robinson’s license reflects the continuing efforts to confront and condemn actions seen as complicity with hate ideologies. It also marks yet another intersection between modern social movements and the historical significance carried by symbols of hate, as they echo loudly through community and church debates.