Jezebel Faces Backlash After Cursing Article Precedes Kirk’s Death

A controversial article published by the left-leaning feminist website Jezebel has sparked outrage after its release on September 8, 2023, just two days before the conservative activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot at a campus event in Utah Valley University on September 10. The piece, titled “We Paid Some Etsy Witches to Curse Charlie Kirk,” described the purchase of online “hex” services aimed at the far-right figure, which included spells with titles such as “Make Everyone Hate Him” and “Powerful Hex Spell.”

Following the shooting, Jezebel amended the article to include an editor’s note emphasizing their condemnation of political violence. “Jezebel condemns the shooting of Charlie Kirk in the strongest possible terms. We do not endorse, encourage, or excuse political violence of any kind,” the note stated.

The original article detailed the author’s experience of ordering curses online and suggested a humorous take on causing minor inconveniences, such as waking up with acne or having ill-fitting clothes. The writer described a desire to “ruin his day with the collective feminist power of the Etsy coven,” while clarifying that the intention was not to cause physical harm.

Despite the unfortunate timing, Jezebel chose to keep the article available online, juxtaposing its content with the recent tragedy. The piece also explored the connection between witchcraft and politics, highlighting how certain figures, like Kirk, embody the frustrations of many on the left. The author characterized Kirk as one of the “downsides” of the internet, attributing his notoriety to his controversial views on gender and politics.

In a reflection of current societal tensions, the article noted, “If Kirk wants a villain, I’m more than happy to be the hag of his nightmares.” The writer acknowledged a moral dilemma regarding the act of cursing someone they had never met, reiterating that they were not invoking dark forces for harm.

As investigations continue into the shooting, authorities have released images of a person of interest and are offering a reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to an arrest. The FBI is actively involved in the case, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and the need for public assistance.

The juxtaposition of the article’s content with the tragic events raises questions about the role of media in contemporary political discourse and the boundaries of satire and humor in discussions surrounding polarizing figures.