Selma Blair has apologized after making an inflammatory comment about Muslims on an Instagram post.
In a statement shared to her Instagram account Tuesday, the actress wrote, “This is a time of great pain and anguish for many around the world, but it is also a time to learn and better understand how words matter. I commented on a post by Abraham Hamra regarding two congress members who are against banning October 7th Hamas terrorists from entering the USA.
“In my comment, I mistakenly and inadvertently conflated Muslims with Radical Islamists and fundamentalists, a terrible err in my words, and resulted in hurting countless people I never meant to, and I deeply regret this,” she continued. “As soon as my error was brought to my attention, I deleted the comment. Hate and misinformation are amplified so easily these days.”
“This time by my own hands. In this instance, I erred in my writing and I fully recognize how I contributed to the Muslim community being understandably very upset. I respect and love all peace-loving communities, all over the world. It was my Muslim friends who helped educate and show me the way,” she shared. “I am committed to paying forward their love and understanding. We cannot allow ignorance and rage to becomes our downfall. I raise my hand in humility and volunteer to break the chain. Those who know me, know that wherever I go, I try to create branches to hold onto, bridges to meet on for all marginalized communities. I am dedicated to tolerance and peace for all who want it – not hate.”
She ended the post by writing, “I apologize to those in the Muslim community who I offended with my words. I apologize to my friends. And I apologize to anyone I hurt. And I will do better. With appreciation, love and respect. Selma”
Blair’s apology came after she posted a comment on a video from Instagram user Abraham Hamra, who referred to Reps. Cori Bush and Rashida Tlaib as “Jew hating antisemites,” in a Feb. 2 post. Hamra was criticizing Bush and Tlaib for voting against the bill H. R. 6679, which would ban people “who participated in or otherwise facilitated” the Oct. 7 Hamas attack from immigrating to the U.S.
In a since-deleted comment, Blair, who is Jewish, wrote, “Thank you very much. Deport all these terrorist supporting goons. Islam has destroyed Muslim countries and then they come here and destroy minds. They know they are liars. Twisted justifications. May they meet their fate.”
The Israel-Hamas conflict has been a source of tension for most people, with many celebrities finding themselves under criticism for their views on both sides. Blair is the latest in a long line of celebrities — including Melissa Barrera, Susan Sarandon, and Julianna Margulies — who have faced backlash for their words.