Additional Coverage:
- Ye website down after selling swastika shirts, ecommerce platform says site violated terms (nbcnews.com)
Local online retailer Shopify has shut down Ye’s website for violating its terms of service. The site, which was recently promoting swastika-emblazoned shirts, was taken offline Tuesday morning. Shopify confirmed the action, stating the site did not engage in authentic commerce practices.
The move follows a Super Bowl ad Ye ran Sunday directing viewers to the website. Over the weekend, the site began selling the controversial shirts featuring the Nazi symbol.
Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, has been embroiled in controversy over recent antisemitic statements, including proclaiming himself a Nazi. His social media account was deactivated Monday.
A spokesperson for Ye, Milo Yiannopoulos, issued a statement Monday highlighting Ye’s artistic contributions and free expression, but did not address the antisemitic remarks. The spokesperson also noted Ye’s social media deactivation. There has been no further comment regarding Shopify’s decision.
Ye’s fashion brand, Yeezy, previously partnered with Adidas. However, the sportswear company severed ties last year due to his antisemitic comments.