Adin Ross directed Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua to make an antisemitic gesture on his livestream—a gesture whose offensive meaning Nacua did not appear to understand. In moments like these, we are called to pause and look carefully at responsibility. The Torah teaches lifnei iver lo titein mikhshol—do not place a stumbling block before the blind. Harm is not only in what is done, but in how others are led to do it.
Mindfulness asks us to notice intention, awareness, and impact. Teshuvah (repentance) asks even more: honest acknowledgment, learning, and change. This is how repair begins. Nacua has taken responsibility for his actions; I hope to see the same from Ross. (And if anyone is able to connect me with Ross, I would welcome the opportunity to speak with him directly, in case I have any details wrong.)
I have seen numerous condemnations from Jewish communities and organizations directed at Nacua. I now await the same level of accountability and response regarding Ross’s role.
As Hanukkah continues, may we choose to increase light—through awareness, accountability, and the courage to do better—rather than deepen the darkness.
