Police Scotland Investigates Anti-Semitic Image in Campaign Against Dame Maureen Lipman
Police Scotland is currently assessing an image that has been labeled as “anti-Semitic” and was used in a campaign urging the removal of Dame Maureen Lipman from a play. The image, which was shared on Facebook, depicted the 79-year-old actress with red devil’s horns and a trident. This portrayal has raised concerns among Jewish community leaders and sparked a broader debate about the use of such imagery in political campaigns.
The Scottish Palestine Solidarity Campaign (SPSC) has been at the forefront of this campaign, encouraging people to sign a petition demanding that Dame Maureen be excluded from performing at His Majesty’s Theatre (HMT) in Aberdeen. She is scheduled to appear in a comedy titled Allegra by Peter Quilter from May 26 to May 30.
This incident comes amid ongoing discussions about how pro-Palestine protests are being handled, particularly regarding chants that some Jewish campaigners believe are anti-Semitic. Police Scotland has confirmed it is reviewing its approach to these issues, stating that it is actively engaging with the Jewish community and liaising with partners.
Historical Context and Modern Concerns
In medieval Christian folklore and artwork, Jews were often depicted with grotesque features such as devil’s horns and other Satanic traits. This historical context makes the recent image of Dame Maureen even more troubling for many observers.
The post was reported to the police by Timothy Lovat, chairman of the Jewish Council of Scotland. He described the image as “absolutely anti-Semitic and disgusting,” warning that such content could lead to real-world anti-Semitic attacks.
The SPSC has stated that over the past decade, Dame Maureen has expressed views that they describe as “extremist, Islamophobic, anti-Palestinian, and anti-Arab.” They have urged people to write to Aberdeen Performing Arts, the taxpayer-funded charity that manages HMT, to make it clear that racists are not welcome.
Public Response and Legal Considerations
Those signing the online petition can send a pre-written letter to the arts charity, arguing that Dame Maureen’s positions are clear: she is an open supporter of the “settler-colonial, apartheid state of Israel,” which continues to commit “genocide” in Gaza and “ethnically cleanses” the West Bank.
Dame Maureen recently told LBC that she believes anti-Semitism in the UK has reached levels similar to those seen during the pogroms in Nazi Germany in 1933. She also called for a ban on pro-Palestine marches in central London following the stabbings of two Jewish men in Golders Green, North London.
Meanwhile, Police Scotland is re-evaluating its stance on whether to arrest pro-Palestine protesters who chant “globalise the intifada.” In contrast, forces such as the Metropolitan Police in London have said they will take decisive action and make arrests if someone is found chanting this phrase.
South of the border, there has been a 50% increase in protests over the last 12 months, with two out of five being organized by pro-Palestine activists. This has led to increased pressure on Police Scotland to adopt a stricter approach.
Legal Guidance and Community Concerns
It has now emerged that top brass within Police Scotland have sought legal guidance on the issue. Former Police Scotland superintendent Martin Gallagher noted that it is difficult for police to investigate chants and individual images, especially after October 7, 2023, when a range of demonstrations were allowed that essentially demonized the Jewish community.
Chief Superintendent Stevie Dolan of the operational support division emphasized that while campaigning and demonstration are legitimate, violence, disorder, hate crime, and threatening behavior are not. Each situation is assessed on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the circumstances and any guidance from the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.
Timothy Lovat, chairman of the Jewish Council of Scotland, explained that the term “intifada” has historically been associated with violence. He warned that the phrase “globalise the intifada” is often interpreted as encouraging violence against Israelis, Jews, and institutions supporting Israel.
As the debate continues, the role of law enforcement in balancing free speech and public safety remains a critical issue, particularly in light of growing concerns about anti-Semitism in the UK.
