https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pQaXf693oUU
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In April 2016 Mark Meechan, a Scottish YouTuber who posts as Count Dankula, uploaded a video of his girlfriend's pug. He had taught the dog to raise its paw in a Nazi salute when he said "Sieg Heil", and in the video he repeatedly asks the dog whether it wants to "gas the Jews". He said he made it as a joke, to annoy his girlfriend. It was watched more than three million times.
In March 2018 Airdrie Sheriff Court, in Scotland, found him guilty under the Communications Act 2003 of posting material that was "grossly offensive" and "anti-Semitic and racist in nature". In April he was fined £800.
"Man Fined £800 over 'Nazi Dog Salute' Footage," Jewish News, 23 April 2018.
"YouTuber Who Taught Pug to Give Nazi Salute Fined £800," STV News, 23 April 2018.
Content note. The film at the top of this page shows the original video, with its antisemitic phrases and Nazi salutes. It also contains strong language throughout, including racial slurs. If you find it difficult to watch, you may step out: come and find me afterwards.
📺 Watch the film at the top of this page. You do not need to take notes while it plays. Notice what surprises you, what questions it raises, and where you find yourself agreeing or disagreeing.
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