Amid Growing Galliano Backlash, Met Gala Mulls Date Change - Report

Key Points:

• The Met Gala, originally scheduled for May 3, 2027, is under scrutiny for honoring designer John Galliano, who was convicted of a hate crime for antisemitic remarks in 2011, leading to discussions about possibly postponing the event to avoid coinciding with Holocaust and Heroism Remembrance Day (Yom HaShoah).
• Met trustees and board members, including Vogue’s Anna Wintour, have been consulting with Jewish leaders over the past year but are now facing increased backlash, with some donors threatening to withdraw support if the exhibition proceeds as planned.
• Prominent critics, such as New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin and art world figure Arne Glimcher, have publicly condemned the Met’s decision to honor Galliano, calling it a serious mistake that undermines the museum’s ethical responsibilities.
• Jill Kargman, a longtime member of the Friends of the Costume Institute, resigned in protest over the Galliano tribute, highlighting internal dissent among the Met’s patron community.
• Met director Max Hollein emphasized the museum’s zero tolerance for antisemitism and stated that leadership is working closely with Jewish stakeholders to develop a respectful and ethical plan for the gala and exhibition.