Richmond, Virginia—On March 24, 2025, Virginia enacted House Bill 2783, criminalizing the display of Nazi symbols intended to intimidate, while explicitly safeguarding the sacred swastika revered in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
Key Facts:
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Legislation Details: House Bill 2783 classifies the intentional placement of a Nazi Hakenkreuz on private property without consent, or in public areas where it incites fear of death or bodily injury, as a Class 6 felony.
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Distinction Made: The bill differentiates the Nazi Hakenkreuz from the ancient swastika, a symbol of peace and prosperity in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
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Community Support: Organizations like the Hindu American Foundation and the Coalition of Hindus of North America advocated for this distinction to prevent misinterpretation of the sacred symbol.
Before this legislation, the display of swastikas was prohibited in places of worship, schools, and community centers. House Bill 2783 extends these protections to private property and public spaces, broadening the scope against acts of intimidation using Nazi symbols.
Samir Kalra, Managing Director of the Hindu American Foundation, expressed gratitude for the bill, stating, "We appreciate Virginia lawmakers’ action to shield both the Hindu and Jewish communities."
Do You Know? The swastika, derived from the Sanskrit word "svastika," meaning "conducive to well-being," has been a sacred symbol in various religions for millennia, representing good fortune and auspiciousness.
Key Terms:
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Hakenkreuz: The German term for the hooked cross associated with the Nazi party, commonly known as the swastika.
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Class 6 Felony: In Virginia, a Class 6 felony is the least severe felony classification, potentially resulting in one to five years of imprisonment.