John Galliano Loses Title Over Anti-Semitic Rants
French President Francois Hollande reportedly has stripped fashion designer John Galliano of his Legion of Honor medal because of anti-Semitic behavior.
French media reported that a presidential decree published on France’s official journal said Galliano may no longer wear the medal – France’s highest honor – which he received in 2009.
Last year Galliano, a British citizen, lost his job as design director at Dior after he was filmed making anti-Semitic statements.
A French court later ruled he had made “public insults based on origin, religious affiliation, race or ethnicity” in several incidents.
In one incident, Galliano stated his love for Adolf Hitler at a Paris bar and told people he believed were Jewish that their mothers should have been gassed.
He blamed his outbursts on addictions to drugs and alcohol. Galliano is 51 years old.
The text of the decree, which was published on Aug. 20, was not immediately available as French authorities issue such announcements only in printed form.
I’m personally matching all gifts to the Forward, up to $36,000. Can I match your gift now?
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
