Elon Musk’s visit to Auschwitz last year is drawing criticism after Julie Gray, the partner of Holocaust survivor Gidon Lev, shared her impressions of his behavior during the tour. Gray described Musk as “unmoved” and “detached” during what was a deeply emotional experience for Lev, who lost his father in a death march near the camp. Musk accompanied Lev as part of a press event, but Gray claims he appeared more concerned about his public image than the weight of the visit.
Gray recounted Musk’s indifference while viewing harrowing displays of personal belongings from Holocaust victims, such as heaps of shoes and hair. She also criticized him for prioritizing photo opportunities over genuine engagement. Musk laid a wreath at the site, but Gray noted that Lev, the tour’s intended “special guest,” was overshadowed and largely ignored during the event.
This comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding Musk’s alleged “Nazi salute” at Donald Trump’s recent inauguration, which he has denied. Critics, including the Anti-Defamation League, have condemned Musk’s handling of Holocaust-related topics, particularly his recent tweets making light of Nazi figures through puns. Gray’s reflections add to the scrutiny, painting a picture of a billionaire out of touch with the gravity of historical tragedy.
While some have defended Musk’s actions at Auschwitz and his gestures at Trump’s event as misunderstood, the criticism highlights the polarizing reactions to his conduct in highly sensitive contexts. These incidents have sparked renewed debates about his role as a public figure and his approach to serious global issues.
