The Truth About Kat Von D And Rafael Reyes' Anti-Semitism Controversy

According to Cafe Mom, tattoo artist Kat Von D admitted to undergoing "years of therapy and healing" to get over being labeled an anti-Semite. However, although she feigned ignorance over this particular incident, when it comes to Von D's husband, Rafael Reyes, the line is considerably blurrier. The musician has what appears to be a swastika tattooed on his neck, but Reyes claims it's not a Nazi symbol. 

As he explained to Remezcla, "I was really inspired by what the symbol meant. It represented so many things — the seasons, like winter, spring, summer, and fall. It's a symbol of the sun; it's also used as a compass. And it just means so many powerful things and it's so ancient." He continued, "I hated how it got stolen and turned into a symbol of hate and negativity. ... One of the reasons I got it tattooed on my throat is because the Buddha has it on his throat. It's because he speaks the truth and that's what I do." 

When fans claimed he was anti-Semitic, Reyes shot back and argued that they know nothing about him if they believe that, even claiming to be Jewish on his father's side. He once again described the symbol as a "Buddhist cross" and pointed to its meanings in various cultures. Although the swastika does have a vast history, it's predominantly considered a Nazi symbol. Von D publicly supported her husband and reasoned that such "hate" comes with the territory.