The White House, under the leadership of Donald Trump, recently honored Harambe, the gorilla whose tragic death at Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden sparked a viral meme frenzy. Harambe was fatally shot in 2016 after pulling a young child into his enclosure, prompting a wave of online tributes and jokes.
In a peculiar social media post on Twitter, the US government praised Harambe as a “true patriot” and highlighted his significance beyond just being a meme. The post reflected on the anniversary of his passing, emphasizing how Harambe symbolized loyalty, strength, chaos, unity, and the unique solidarity of internet users.
The tribute, shared by the White House official account, remembered Harambe as a lasting figure in popular culture, with the post garnering widespread attention and resurfacing past discussions, including remarks made by Trump in 2016 when he was a presidential candidate. Trump had expressed admiration for Harambe’s actions towards the child in the enclosure, acknowledging the difficult decision to shoot the gorilla for the child’s safety.
Harambe, who was born in captivity in 1999, left a legacy that transcended his untimely death, resonating with millions worldwide. The White House’s tribute to Harambe reflects the enduring impact of the incident and its place in modern cultural memory.