Madonna and Swastika Image: Pop Star Defends Use of Nazi Symbol in Concerts
Madonna has spoken out about a swastika image used during her ongoing MDNA tour. The pop star has caused huge controversy by showing the Nazi symbol imposed onto the face of a French politician.
The controversial image was shown as she sung "Nobody Knows Me" in her recent Paris concert at the Stade de France on July 14. As Madonna sung her song the large screen at the concert showed the face of Marine Le Pen, who is the leader of France's National Front party. A swastika was imposed on Le Pen's face.
Madonna has confirmed to a Brazilian TV channel that all images used in her tour concerts were chosen "purposefully." She said, "That film that was created is about the intolerance that we human beings have for one another and how much we judge people before knowing them."
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The divisive move by Madonna has angered politicians in France, and the country's National Front Party has since said it plans to sue Madonna.
The France concert was not the first time that Madonna's shows had shown the video image, and Ms Le Pen had previously warned that legal action could be taken if Madonna continued to use it. However, Madonna has refused to back down.
Madonna, speaking to the Brazilian TV channel, said, "There seems to be a growing intolerance around the world. In Greece, France, everywhere people are trying to kick out all the immigrants, make people cover up and not show what their religious affiliation is. Think about what's going on in Russia towards the gay community."
The pop star added, "I'm calling attention to that intolerance and asking people to pay attention, to wake up to see how we are just creating more chaos in the world."
Madonna has been accused from some quarters as being intent on causing controversy, and has been labeled "insensitive." In her concert on July 21 in Edinburgh, Madonna refused to heed to warnings not to brandish a gun. Critics had warned that it would be hugely insensitive in light of the recent Colorado shootings in which 12 people were shot dead and 58 other injured as lone gunman, James Holmes, fired at moviegoers at a "The Dark Knight Rises" premiere showing.
Instead of heeding to warnings Madonna has insisted: "Art is there to track what's going on in the world, to make social commentary," according to the BBC.
