Black-Jewish actor Jussie Smollett attacked in suspected hate crime

— Emma Watson (@EmmaWatson) January 30, 2019

The celebrity news website TMZ reported that the two men shouted “This is Maga country” during the assault.

“Maga” is an acronym for “Make America Great Again”, Donald Trump’s election campaign slogan in 2016.

Smollett, 36, was born to an African-American mother and a Jewish father.

The Anti-Defamation League condemned the “alleged homophobic and racist assault”, calling for officers to “work swiftly to bring the alleged perpetrators to justice”.

In the wake of Tuesday’s attack, a number of celebrities offered support to Smollett via social media.

 

 

 

 

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OMG!! THIS is why the LGBTQ community continue to fight to be seen and PROTECTED against hate! We ALL have to take this racist and homophobic act of violence very personally! My arms are around you @jussiesmollett. You are loved!

A post shared by Viola Davis (@violadavis) on Jan 29, 2019 at 10:48am PST

Musician John Legend wrote: “Sending love to Jussie and the Smollett family after this horrific attack. We support you and pray that you find peace and justice.”

Singer and actress Janelle Monae added: “It is still a risk daily to be a BLACK, OUT, and PROUD human being. I am sending so much love to you Jussie. Praying for your healing”