Ye Publishes Full-Page Apology in Wall Street Journal for Antisemitic Behaviour
The rapper and fashion designer Kanye West, who now goes by the name Ye, has taken a significant step towards public accountability by placing a full-page advertisement in the Wall Street Journal. In this open letter, titled "To Those I've Hurt," he issues a heartfelt apology for his past antisemitic actions and statements, while firmly denying any affiliation with Nazi ideology.
Attributing Actions to Bipolar-1 Disorder
Ye directly links his controversial behaviour to a diagnosis of bipolar-1 disorder, which he claims stemmed from an undiagnosed frontal-lobe injury sustained in a car accident back in 2002. He describes how this condition led him to "lose touch with reality," resulting in what he terms "poor judgment and reckless behaviour." Specifically, he references gravitating towards destructive symbols like the swastika, which he used on T-shirts, and creating inflammatory content such as the song Heil Hitler.
Despite a previous apology in 2023, Ye's actions in early 2025 escalated, including the sale of swastika merchandise that prompted platforms like Shopify to remove his webstore. His recent musical release, which sampled Hitler's speeches, faced bans in countries like Germany due to hate speech laws but gained notoriety online, with figures such as Andrew Tate being filmed making Nazi salutes to it.
Mental Health Struggles and Personal Impact
In his letter, Ye provides a candid account of his mental health journey, highlighting the severe consequences of bipolar disorder. He notes that the mortality rate associated with this condition is comparable to that of diseases like severe heart disease or cancer, underscoring its seriousness. Ye admits to experiencing a four-month manic episode in early 2025, which he says led to suicidal thoughts and significant personal turmoil.
He expresses deep regret for the impact on his loved ones, particularly mentioning his ex-wife Kim Kardashian and their daughter North West, whom he treated "the worst" during these episodes. Ye also extends an apology to the Black community, acknowledging past comments that downplayed slavery and his use of divisive symbols like the "white lives matter" slogan.
Path to Recovery and Future Endeavours
Ye credits his wife, Bianca Censori, with encouraging him to seek help after hitting "rock bottom." He has found solace in online communities, such as Reddit forums, where he reads about others' experiences with manic and depressive episodes. Through a regimen of medication, therapy, exercise, and "clean living," Ye reports gaining newfound clarity and is now channelling his energy into creating "positive, meaningful art."
His upcoming album, Bully, has faced multiple delays but remains a focus for his artistic efforts. Ye concludes his apology by not asking for sympathy but rather for patience and understanding as he works towards earning forgiveness and finding his way back to a healthier state.
This public statement marks a pivotal moment in Ye's career, as he navigates the complex interplay between mental health, public accountability, and his influence in the global community.
