Native American elder Nathan Phillips, teen Nick Sandmann give versions of encounter

Updated: November 20, 2024

Washington Post


Summary

On January 18th, a confrontation occurred between three groups at the Lincoln Memorial: black Hebrew Israelites, Covington Catholic High School students, and attendees of the Indigenous Peoples March. The incident involved a standoff between the students and elder Nathan Phillips, with conflicting versions of the event emerging on January 20th. Tensions escalated after an hour, with chanting and a standoff also involving the black Hebrew Israelites. The situation drew widespread attention as Phillips and student Nick Sandmann released public statements with differing accounts of the incident, including allegations of racist remarks and tense encounters. The incident sparked debates and discussions about cultural understanding, behavior, and media representation.


Introduction to Convergence of Groups

On Friday, January 18th, three groups of people gathered at the Lincoln Memorial: black Hebrew Israelites, Covington Catholic High School students, and attendees of the Indigenous Peoples March.

Incident Description and Initial Reactions

A video shows a confrontation between the high school students and elder Nathan Phillips, with conflicting versions of the incident emerging on January 20th.

Escalation of the Situation

The situation escalates after about an hour, with chanting and a standoff between the students and the black Hebrew Israelites.

Nathan Phillips' Actions

Phillips approaches the students, trying to defuse tension by moving forward as they back away, ultimately leading to a standoff at the Lincoln Memorial.

Standoff at the Lincoln Memorial

Phillips describes how he tried to make his way out but was blocked by a student, leading to a tense standoff at the Capitol's steps and the Lincoln Memorial.

Statements from both Parties

Phillips and Sandman release public statements with their accounts of the incident, including allegations of racist remarks and tense encounters.


FAQ

Q: What three groups of people gathered at the Lincoln Memorial on January 18th?

A: The three groups were black Hebrew Israelites, Covington Catholic High School students, and attendees of the Indigenous Peoples March.

Q: What incident occurred between the high school students and elder Nathan Phillips?

A: There was a confrontation between the high school students and elder Nathan Phillips, with conflicting versions of the incident emerging.

Q: How did the situation escalate after about an hour?

A: The situation escalated with chanting and a standoff between the students and the black Hebrew Israelites.

Q: How did Phillips try to defuse tension at the Lincoln Memorial?

A: Phillips approached the students, trying to defuse tension by moving forward as they backed away, ultimately leading to a standoff.

Q: What were the allegations made in the public statements by Phillips and Sandman regarding the incident?

A: The public statements included allegations of racist remarks and tense encounters.

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