• Coinbase stirs up controversy by referring to Pepe Coin (PEPE) as a “hate symbol” used by alt-right organizations.
• Crypto users outraged over the characterization of Pepe Coin, calling for an apology and even a boycott of the exchange.
• The Anti-Defamation League added “Pepe the Frog” to its database of hate symbols in 2016, citing its use by white supremacist groups.
Coinbase Refers To Pepe Coin As “Hate Symbol”
Coinbase, one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges in the world, has found itself embroiled in controversy once again. This time, the company has caused a stir by referring to Pepe Coin (PEPE), a popular meme coin, as a “hate symbol” used by alt-right organizations.
Outrage Among Crypto Community Over Characterization Of Pepe Coin
The email from Coinbase cites an Anti-Defamation League (ADL) decision from 2016, which added the “Pepe the Frog” meme character to its database of online hate symbols. The move has outraged Pepe Coin supporters and users, who have demanded an apology from the exchange and even called for a boycott of the crypto exchange. The controversy has been amplified by popular crypto influencer Borovik.eth, who shared a screenshot of the email on May 10.
Why Is ADL Involved In Controversy?
The ADL is an international Jewish non-governmental organization that aims to combat anti-Semitism and other forms of hate and bigotry. In 2016, the ADL added “Pepe the Frog” to its database of hate symbols, stating that the character had been appropriated by white supremacist groups and used to spread hate and bigotry online. While the character was originally created as a harmless meme, it has since been co-opted by extremist groups and used to promote hateful ideologies.
Calls For Boycott Of Coinbase
Many in the crypto community are outraged over Coinbase’s description of Pepe Coin as a hate symbol and have urged others to delete their Coinbase accounts in protest. Some users have also called for boycotting Coinbase until they apologize for their characterization of PEPE coin as well as any future misunderstandings concerning cryptocurrencies or digital assets related topics or events on their platform
Conclusion
The dispute between Coinbase and PEPE coin supporters is just another example showing how companies need to be more careful when dealing with cryptocurrencies or digital assets related topics or events on their platforms if they want to maintain good relationships with their customers/users