A Massachusetts restaurant, Kith and Kin, in Hudson, found itself at the center of a heated debate after serving a group of World War II reenactors, some of whom were wearing Nazi uniforms. The incident led to temporary closure due to threats and sparked a wider conversation about the appropriateness of wearing WWII Nazi uniforms in public spaces.
The controversy unfolded when a group from the American Heritage Museum visited Kith and Kin for dinner on a Saturday night. Among the group, as the restaurant later explained, were individuals dressed as American soldiers, a military nurse, and notably, two reenactors in Wehrmacht Waffen-SS uniforms, iconic symbols of Nazi Germany during World War II.
Restaurant’s Apology and Public Backlash
The presence of individuals in WWII Nazi uniforms in a public restaurant setting quickly drew criticism. Kith and Kin responded swiftly to the burgeoning controversy, issuing an apology on their Facebook page the following Sunday. The restaurant acknowledged that, “in hindsight,” they should have asked the reenactors in WWII Nazi uniforms to change before seating them. Their statement emphasized an understanding of the sensitivity surrounding Nazi symbols, especially “at a time when acts of anti-Semitic violence continue to rise.” They stressed that they would never knowingly condone anti-Semitic beliefs and regretted the distress caused to their community.
Despite the prompt apology, the backlash escalated. The restaurant became the target of online harassment and threats, forcing them to temporarily close on Tuesday for the safety of their staff. Announcing the closure in another Facebook post, Kith and Kin cited “increased harassment and threats” following news reports about the incident. The restaurant, however, reopened the following day, Wednesday, declining further comment to local news outlets.
Museum’s Perspective on WWII Nazi Uniforms
The American Heritage Museum, the group associated with the reenactors, also addressed the controversy. Gary Lewi, a trustee of the museum, stated unequivocally that wearing WWII Nazi uniforms outside of “an historical or educational context” is inappropriate. He emphasized the deeply offensive nature of such displays, particularly given the current climate of rising antisemitism and Holocaust denial.
Lewi highlighted the strict protocols the American Heritage Museum has regarding WWII Nazi uniforms and other sensitive attire. Within the museum’s controlled environment, there are clear guidelines on “what to wear, when to wear it, how to wear it.” These protocols, designed to ensure respectful and educational use of historical uniforms, were clearly violated when reenactors wore WWII Nazi uniforms in a public dining establishment. The museum pledged to reinforce these protocols and implement stricter consequences for any future breaches.
Context and Understanding WWII Nazi Uniforms
The incident underscores the potent symbolism still carried by WWII Nazi uniforms. These are not merely historical garments; they represent a regime of terror, genocide, and global conflict. For many, particularly within the Jewish community and among veterans and their families, the sight of a Nazi uniform evokes profound pain and anger. The swastika and other insignia on WWII Nazi uniforms are symbols of hate and oppression, inextricably linked to the atrocities of the Holocaust.
While historical reenactment plays a role in education and remembrance, context is paramount. Wearing WWII Nazi uniforms in a casual public setting, devoid of educational framing, is widely perceived as insensitive and offensive. As Gary Lewi aptly put it, in this instance, it was “beyond thoughtless” and “repugnant,” even if not a criminal act. The controversy at Kith and Kin serves as a stark reminder of the need for careful consideration and respect when dealing with the sensitive symbols of WWII and the enduring legacy of Nazi Germany.
