'Not same as Swastika': Virgina enacts law to criminalize display of Nazi symbols; to prioritize ‘Hakenkreuz' instead
The state of Virginia in the US has enacted a new law criminalizing the display of Nazi symbols, marking a win for accuracy and religious freedom and equitable treatment for 'Dharmic communities' as per the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA).
Virginia has officially enacted the House Bill 2783 which distinguished between 'Hakenkreuz' the German word for 'Hooked Cross' and the sacred symbol of Swastika revered by many religions.
'The nuance in this law was the result of a united grassroots campaign from community leaders and Viriginia residents, alarmed at the terms of the original bill which had threatened prison terms for displaying a symbol that is almost ubiquitous in our temples and houses.
This is the power of advocacy,' said ConHNA through a post on X.
'We are pleased to see how Virginia is tackling growing hate while being sensitive to minority groups that revere the Swastika', said the president of CoHNA. 'Now the need of the hour is for the media, law enforcement, and educational institutions in Virginia to update their language to reflect this critical nuance and ensure fair treatment for all,' he added.
Initially, the bill had incorrectly equated the Nazi symbol to the Swastika, as per CoHNA. Despite concerns, the bill passed unanimously in the Virginia House of Delegates with a 97-0 vote.
The billll also explicitly defines 'Nazi Swastika' is not the 'same as symbol of peace and prosperity used by Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Zoroastrianism, or Native American religions.'
'By explicitly delineating the legal status of the Swastika, the statute not only condemns and prohibits its misuse as a symbol of hatred, but also affirms and honors its sacred meaning within Hinduism and other Dharmic traditions. In doing so, the Commonwealth of Virginia sets a precedent for a more informed, respectful, and inclusive civic discourse', said Srilekha Palle a member of the Board of Directors at the American Hindu Coalition.
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