John Galliano Suspended From Dior Amidst Racist Allegations

Fashion designer John Galliano has reportedly been suspended from Dior over claims he launched a racist tirade at a couple in Paris.



According to reports, Galliano had been drinking at a bar in the historic Rue Vielle du Temple when witnesses overheard him verbally abusing a couple of Asian descent. The police were subsequently called and Galliano arrested.

Dior chief executive Sidney Toledano confirmed yesterday that the company had suspended Galliano in light of the allegations. "Dior affirms with the utmost conviction its policy of zero tolerance towards any anti-Semitic or racist words or behaviour.

"Pending the results of the inquiry, Christian Dior has suspended John Galliano from his responsibilities."

Since the shock claims arose, a video of the alleged incident has been posted on the internet by witnesses at the bar.

However, Galliano's lawyer, Stephane Zerbib, claims that the designer is "not guilty" and has in fact filed a defamation claim in response.

"He feels it is a decision that has been made without verification of the facts and based on one side of the story and he is very shocked about that."

Zerbib also says he is unaware when the video was filmed, telling Associated Press, "there's no comment on that... What matters isn't what's on the internet, what matters are the testimonies and the hearings."