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1. anthonyrimel
   Member
   Nov 25, 2009, 10:08 PM

   A friend of mine who had commented on a post on my blog emailed me to complain that it had assigned her a default avatar in the shape of a swastika. She doesn't know how to change it and I don't know how to change it either. She has only used WordPress the time she commented on my blog.

   I'd really appreciate some help with this as neither one of us wants to see a symbol up next to her name that could be offensive. It's particularly offensive to my friend, as she is German.

   The URL for the post that the comment was on is:

   http://anthonyrimel.wordpress.com/2009/11/04/maya-angelou-on-why-to-travel/

   The blog I need help with is anthonyrimel.wordpress.com.

2. panaghiotisadam
   Member
   Nov 25, 2009, 10:20 PM

   I think your friend has a rather vivid imagination. Anyway, you can go to Settings > Discussion, scroll down to Avatars > Default Avatar, and select the Blank option or the Gravatar Logo option instead of the ridiculous Identicons.

3. tellyworth
   Staff
   Nov 25, 2009, 11:20 PM

   I have to agree with panaghiotisadam - if that avatar reminds her of a swastika, then almost anything would (including yours).

   In addition to the suggestion above, your friend can upload her own avatar at http://gravatar.com/

4. timethief
   Member
   Nov 26, 2009, 12:56 AM

   It doesn't remind me of a swastika. Even if it did I'm aware of the original meaning of this ancient Bon, Buddhist, Hindu, Jain symbol that was hijacked and misused. The word swastika is derived from the Sanskrit word svastika, which is a reference to any lucky or auspicious object, and in particular a mark made on persons and things to denote good luck. The modern equivalent to the term would be a talisman. It sickens me that it was hijacked by the Third Reich and is currently in use by Neo-Nazi groups.

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