Hate Crime Investigation Launched After Two Women with Jewish Symbols Expelled from Barcelona Sauna Event
Barcelona, May 31 – The Mossos d’Esquadra have launched an investigation into a possible hate crime following an incident on Friday night where two women, reportedly wearing Jewish symbols, were expelled from a sauna in Barcelona. The women have filed a complaint, alleging discriminatory motives behind their expulsion by the event organizer.
Israeli Government Condemns Incident as ‘Antisemitic Attack’
The incident has drawn strong condemnation from the Israeli government. In a statement posted on ‘X’, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the event as “another antisemitic attack” in Spain and urged authorities to take decisive action. The ministry’s post included a video of the scene, emphasizing the discriminatory nature of the expulsion. “Singling out Jews for Jewish symbols and demanding they distance themselves from Zionism to be accepted is blatant antisemitism,” the statement read.
Establishment Disavows Actions of Event Organizers
In response to the controversy, the management of the sauna establishment issued a statement expressing its “deep regret” and “categorical condemnation” of the events. The establishment explicitly distanced itself from the actions and comments of the organizers of the ‘Bolleras al vapor’ event, which took place on Friday. They acknowledged that the women were denied access in an “entirely unacceptable manner” and confirmed that the collective responsible would no longer be permitted to organize events at their facilities.
The statement from the sauna management further emphasized, “We want to express with absolute clarity that we reject any form of antisemitism, racism, xenophobia, discrimination, or conduct that violates the dignity of individuals.”
Details of the Incident Emerge
The alleged incident occurred on Friday, May 30, at a sauna in Barcelona. According to the complaint filed by the two women, they were asked to leave the premises, with the organizers citing their Jewish symbols as the reason. This has prompted the Mossos d’Esquadra to open an investigation into a potential hate crime, focusing on whether the expulsion was indeed motivated by discrimination based on their religious identity.
The investigation will aim to gather further evidence and witness testimonies to determine the precise circumstances surrounding the expulsion and to ascertain if a hate crime, as defined by Spanish law, was committed. The outcome of this investigation is highly anticipated, given the sensitivity of the issue and the international attention it has garnered.
This incident comes amidst broader discussions about antisemitism and discrimination in Europe, highlighting the importance of vigilance and swift action by authorities to address such concerns. The local community and human rights organizations are closely monitoring the investigation, emphasizing the need for a thorough and impartial review of the facts.
The Barcelona City Council has not yet issued a formal statement regarding the incident, but local political figures are expected to address the matter as the investigation progresses. The case underscores the ongoing challenges in combating discrimination and ensuring inclusive environments for all individuals, regardless of their background or beliefs.
The ‘Bolleras al vapor’ event, now at the center of this controversy, was a private gathering hosted at the sauna. The establishment’s swift action to sever ties with the organizers reflects an attempt to mitigate reputational damage and to reaffirm its commitment against discriminatory practices.
As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on upholding principles of equality and non-discrimination, with calls for justice for the affected individuals and a clear message that hate-motivated actions will not be tolerated in Barcelona or elsewhere.
Source: https://www.elperiodico.com/es/barcelona/20260531/investigan-posible-delito-odio-mujeres-simbologia-judia-expulsadas-evento-sauna-barcelona-130872114
