The whispers spread like a fire through the Vatican’s marble hall, when Donald Trump made his entrance to the funeral of the Pope Francis, attracted confused glances, and quarreled from the audience.
It was not just a glaring violation of the traditional dressing code that caught everyone’s attention – it was a special series of actions that followed, so many wondered if the former president intentionally chose a moment to make a controversial statement. What has developed further would cause outrage around the world and set fire to a hard debate on respect, power and borders of the protocol on one of the most sacred ceremonies in the world.
As a result of the will surrounding Trump’s behavior at the funeral of Pope Francis, many of them question the boundaries of decorum and respect in highly profile global events. His actions, which many perceived as inappropriate and tone deaf, lit a storm of criticism that could take some time in public consciousness. While his supporters defend his decisions, others consider it another example of ignoring tradition and festivities. In the end, the controversy serves as a sharp reminder of how the world cares carefully – and remembers – those in the center of attention.