Romach

Wednesday, December 07, 2005

Stars, Crosses, Crescents, & Crystals

Israel will finally be allowed to enter the International Red Cross. Magen David Adom (MDA), the Israeli agency, will be allowed to enter using "Red Crystals."

Until now, Israel hasn't been allowed in, since Muslim countries objected to the Jewish star. Israeli medics in combat situations will now be allowed to wear a red crystal (or cross or crescent). The symbol is supposed to protect them from harm.

Should we celebrate? Its good that Israel is finally part of the IRC, ending decades of exclusion. But its bad that they can't enter with their own symbol, while the Muslim and Christian countries can use theirs. It smacks of discrimination and racism. I guess its better than nothing.