The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s plan to honor the designer had previously drawn significant opposition.
Julie Menin, speaker of New York City Council, said, external: “Following my extensive and prolonged discussions with the Met, I am pleased that they have agreed against honoring John Galliano.”
“From the outset, I have made clear my strong disagreement with this decision, as it has dealt a devastating blow to the Jewish community at a time of rising antisemitism.”
“This is the appropriate decision, as the resulting harm and pain were simply unacceptable.”
Jonathan Greenblatt, chief executive of the Anti-Defamation League, which aims to counter antisemitism, stated that honoring Galliano would be “misguided” given the “crisis levels” of antisemitism.
“Even Galliano ultimately recognized what the Met should have done from the beginning,” he added. “This was the wrong move at the wrong time; the timing was critical.”
Though considered by many as one of the most influential fashion designers, Galliano returned to the industry after his conviction, holding the role of creative director at Margiela for ten years until 2024.