Gavin Newsom selects trans activist who confronted conservatives for anti-hate organization
Bamby Salcedo: California Gov. Newsom’s Appointee to Anti-Hate Commission
California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s appointee to an anti-hate commission is making headlines, but perhaps not in the way the Democrat intended.
Bamby Salcedo, a transgender rights activist and member of California’s Commission on the State of Hate, has stirred controversy with her social media posts. In one instance, she threatened to “slap” panelists at an event on transgender issues, using derogatory language to refer to one participant. Salcedo, who founded the TransLatin@ Coalition, has also attacked ”f— face conservatives” and “MAGA morons” on social media.
These remarks contradict the mission of the Commission on the State of Hate, which aims to “stop hate and promote mutual respect.” Newsom established the commission in 2022 and appointed Salcedo as vice chair. The commission, consisting of nine members, is responsible for researching “hate activity” in California and organizing events to raise awareness about the issue.
This is not the first instance of a government anti-hate initiative harboring activists who themselves promote hate. The White House, for example, enlisted the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) for its anti-Semitism fighting initiative, despite CAIR’s links to Hamas. Similarly, members of anti-hate crimes task forces in Massachusetts and Maryland have expressed anti-Semitic views following the Hamas attack. Talbert Swan, a member of the Massachusetts hate crimes task force, even described “whiteness” as an “unrelenting, demonic force of evil.”
Newsom, a rising star in the Democratic Party, met with CAIR leaders in December, despite revelations that their leader praised the Hamas attacks. Furthermore, Newsom’s office has provided millions of dollars in anti-terrorism grants to mosques and Islamic groups that support Hamas and advocate for the destruction of Israel.
Salcedo has also had access to the Biden administration, having visited the White House on multiple occasions and participated in a roundtable event with then-Biden adviser Susan Rice. Additionally, Salcedo spoke at a Justice Department “United Against Hate” event in Los Angeles.
Salcedo’s social media accounts reveal a strong disdain for conservatives and critics of the transgender rights movement. She has verbally attacked “f— face conservatives” and musician Kid Rock, using derogatory language. Salcedo even accused Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, who is black, of being racist for opposing affirmative action. In the past, she proposed using “radical” means to prevent Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh from entering the building after his confirmation.
However, Salcedo reserves particularly harsh words for feminists who critique the transgender movement. At a Heritage Foundation panel on transgender issues, she expressed a desire to physically harm the panelists, using offensive language to describe them. One of her targets was Hacsi Horvath, a former transgender movement activist who underwent detransitioning and has spoken out against transitioning, especially for children.
Neither Salcedo nor Newsom’s office responded to requests for comment.
How can a commission effectively combat hate and promote mutual respect when its members engage in divisive and derogatory rhetoric themselves?
Ressed anti-Semitic views and compared Israel to Nazi Germany.
Critics argue that these appointments undermine the credibility and effectiveness of anti-hate initiatives. How can a commission combat hate and promote mutual respect when its members engage in divisive and derogatory rhetoric themselves? They question whether these appointments are driven by political considerations rather than a genuine commitment to fighting hate.
Supporters of Salcedo argue that her controversial statements should not overshadow her contributions as an advocate for transgender rights. They cite her work with the TransLatin@ Coalition, a national organization that addresses the needs of transgender Latinx communities. They assert that her lived experiences as a transgender woman of color provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by marginalized communities, and that these perspectives are crucial in shaping policies and initiatives to combat hate.
However, critics argue that while Salcedo’s advocacy for transgender rights is commendable, it does not excuse her inflammatory language and attacks on social media. They contend that promoting respect and understanding requires engaging in constructive dialogue and fostering empathy, rather than resorting to name-calling and derogatory language. They argue that Salcedo’s behavior undermines the very principles she claims to support.
The controversy surrounding Salcedo’s appointment raises important questions about the criteria for selecting individuals to serve on anti-hate commissions and similar initiatives. Should individuals with a history of promoting hate and using divisive rhetoric be disqualified from these positions? Or should the focus be on their potential to contribute to the cause and bring about positive change?
Addressing these questions requires a careful balance between ensuring diverse perspectives and lived experiences are represented, while also maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of anti-hate initiatives. It underscores the importance of conducting thorough vetting processes and holding appointees accountable for their actions and statements.
Ultimately, the goal of any anti-hate commission should be to create an inclusive and respectful society, free from discrimination and prejudice. To achieve this, it is essential that those appointed to these positions embody these values and demonstrate a genuine commitment to promoting unity, understanding, and empathy.
The controversy surrounding Bamby Salcedo’s appointment serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges inherent in addressing hate and discrimination. It highlights the need for ongoing evaluation and re-evaluation of the individuals entrusted with such responsibilities, as well as the need for open and honest discussions about the criteria and standards for these appointments.
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