NOTICE: This contest has been ammended and you can now see the updated rules of entry here.
WHY? While the “Hitler Meme” is hilarious to me and millions of others, apparently there is a large population that is offended by the use of Hitler in any comical light whatsoever. I could claim they’re being overly sensitive, but who am I to tell someone how they should and shouldn’t feel? I can understand why the original contest may have upset some folks, and had I known I wouldn’t have held the contest to begin with. In my mind the Hitler meme is harmless and funny, but I don’t want to hold a contest (with the intention of being fun) at the expense of my readers’ feelings.
When the backlash began in the comments (which I’ve left untouched), I updated the contest to say the following at the bottom:
UPDATE: In light of some of the negative comments, we thought we’d remind you this is an INTERNET MEME that is WIDELY ACCEPTED by respected news sources – even the director of the video approves and enjoys the parody. If the intentions of our use don’t seem obviously innocent, and for some reason you think they’re racially motivated or mean-spirited, than you’re missing the point completely. Apologies if this offends you, hopefully you’ll just understand why the majority of people don’t mind it, and move along. Either way, I’ll be accepting all your comments so spew your hate towards me if you must!
I’ve been flamed in comments before and I always try to admit when I’m wrong. In this case, I don’t think the Hitler meme is “wrong” but we could argue this point until we’re both blue in the face – it’s a matter of opinion and I’d rather err on the side of sensitivity. Had I just been making/posting the video itself this would be a non-issue (I’ve posted one before), but holding a contest around the theme is a bit different.
For those that DO find the Hitler Meme funny, feel free to watch the video that started this drama-fest. And for everybody, regardless of which side you stand, check out the new Nexus One Contest. Several people have already started working on the “Hitler Meme” and we’re happy to continue accepting those as submissions (without penalty). If we think they’re funny, they’ll be judged equally.