Holocaust Costume Fuels Accusations of Biased Policing

A Palestine Action protester, Maria Gallastegui, sparked controversy by appearing at a recent demonstration dressed as a Holocaust concentration camp inmate. The outfit, which replaced the Star of David with a moon and crescent, has drawn strong criticism from Jewish groups and Members of Parliament, who have labeled it as racially aggravated. Gallastegui, a long-time activist, has been involved in various protests over the past two decades, with the potential proscription of Palestine Action as a terrorist organization becoming her latest focus.

The lack of immediate police intervention in response to Gallastegui's attire has been contrasted with the swift action taken against an individual who burned a Quran outside the Turkish Consulate in London. This disparity has led to accusations of "two-tier" policing, with some suggesting that certain religious groups are afforded greater protection than others. Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick has voiced concerns about a perceived bias in the application of public order laws.

Free speech advocates have also weighed in, arguing that prosecutions related to the burning of religious artifacts infringe upon freedom of expression. Alex Hearn of Labour Against Anti-Semitism expressed dismay over the offensive nature of Gallastegui's actions, highlighting the distress caused by the appropriation and distortion of the Holocaust. He criticized the police for not intervening in what he considered a blatant display of offense.

Gallastegui is a well-known figure in activist circles, having been arrested on numerous occasions for her involvement in various protests. Her past actions include damaging property, protesting outside Parliament, and camping in opposition to local council plans. At the recent protest, she was seen carrying a placard that could potentially become a criminal offense if the government proscribes Palestine Action as a terrorist organization. The government is currently considering this action following a recent incident involving the sabotage of RAF planes.

In a statement, Gallastegui defended her actions, drawing a parallel between the Holocaust and the situation in Gaza. She stated that her intention was not to be anti-Semitic but to highlight the suffering of the people of Gaza. She explained that the alteration of the symbols was intended to illustrate her point. A Met Police spokesperson confirmed that an investigation into the incident is ongoing.