Antioch High School Shooting: A Manifesto of Hate

A deadly shooting at Antioch High School in Nashville, Tennessee, on January 22, 2025, has exposed the dangers of online extremism. Seventeen-year-old Solomon Henderson killed 16-year-old Josselin Corea Escalante, injured two others, and died by suicide. Authorities later uncovered a 300-page manifesto linked to Henderson’s online activity, detailing his radicalization in far-right digital spaces.

Manifesto Highlights:

• Identity Crisis and Extremist Idols: Henderson wrote of self-hatred over his Black identity, glorifying Adolf Hitler, neo-Nazi groups such as the Goyim Defense League, and Audrey Hale, the perpetrator of the 2023 Covenant School shooting.
• Echoes of Extremist Rhetoric: The manifesto recycled violent ideologies, including accelerationist calls for societal collapse (e.g., “Billions Must Die”), and cited far-right commentator Candace Owens as an influence.
• Preparation for Violence: Henderson shared photos of weapons, a lock-picking kit, and criticized schools as “daycare centers,” while outlining plans for the attack.
• Live-Streamed Attack: Parts of the shooting were broadcast on Kick, intensifying scrutiny of social media platforms’ role in spreading extremist content.

Burzum: Etymology and Enduring Controversy

Origins of the Name:

• “Burzum” stems from J.R.R. Tolkien’s fictional Black Speech language, translating to “darkness.” Tolkien’s works have faced criticism for alleged racial undertones, including parallels to Nazi-era propaganda.

Musical Influence vs. Toxic Legacy:

• Founded in 1991 by Norwegian musician Varg Vikernes, Burzum shaped black metal’s sound but remains inseparable from Vikernes’ crimes. He was convicted of murder and church burnings in the 1990s and has since promoted neo-Nazi ideologies, including white supremacy and eugenics.
• Despite his imprisonment, Burzum’s music continues to inspire bands like Deafheaven. Vikernes’ extremist views, however, dominate its legacy.

Racist Ties and Cultural Impact:

• Neo-Nazi Activism: Vikernes has praised far-right terrorist Anders Breivik and labeled non-white races “inferior.” His writings and SS-themed merchandise fuel the National Socialist Black Metal (NSBM) movement.
• Mainstream Controversies: Public figures, including Kanye West, have faced backlash for wearing Burzum merchandise. In 2024, West’s choice to sport a Burzum shirt amid antisemitism allegations sparked debates about normalizing hate symbols.

Community Grief and Calls for Change

• Nashville in Mourning: Vigils for Josselin Corea Escalante drew hundreds, with survivors recalling Henderson as a “loner” who showed no overt signs of violence.
• Demands for Accountability: Advocacy groups urge stricter gun laws and regulation of online hate speech. The Anti-Defamation League called Henderson’s manifesto a “hate-filled blueprint” reflecting global far-right extremism.
• Art vs. Artist Debate: While some fans defend Burzum’s musical merit, critics argue supporting the project funds Vikernes’ activism. Social media posts of people of color wearing Burzum shirts have ignited discussions about cultural awareness.

Investigations and Ongoing Scrutiny

• Henderson’s Online Trail: Authorities are analyzing Henderson’s engagement with extremist forums and influencers like Nick Fuentes.
• Burzum’s Resurgence: Vikernes’ 2024 album release has reignited criticism of platforms like Spotify for hosting his music. His 2014 conviction in France for inciting racial hatred remains a focal point in debates about free speech and extremism.

Conclusion
The Antioch tragedy and Burzum’s legacy highlight the intersection of digital radicalization, systemic racism, and ethical consumption. As investigations proceed, the case underscores the urgent need to address hate-driven violence and its cultural roots.