MONTREAL—The appearance of so-called Nazi salutes at some Quebec student protests is being condemned by different Jewish organizations.

Some protesters have been using the gesture in recent weeks to mock Montreal police at demonstrations during which chanting crowds have referred to local officers as the “SS,” calling them fascists and comparing them to Nazi police for their alleged brutality.

There have also been swastikas on anti-police pamphlets being distributed.

While the gestures are meant as an insult to police — and not as an expression of support for Nazism — a pair of prominent Jewish organizations say that’s no excuse.

B’nai Brith Canada says the action defiles the memory of those who died in the Holocaust, of those who survived, and of those who fought against the Nazis in World War II. Frank Dimant, B’nai Brith Canada’s CEO, says students should put a stop to using the gesture immediately.

The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs says the decision to use that gesture — in the current context — speaks to a lack of historical understanding.

Photos of the Nazi-themed protests have been circulating on social- networking sites, causing some shock and outrage. The photos have been posted on the Internet in recent days, sometimes without context, leaving viewers puzzled about why Montreal protesters are using the salute. (© Copyright Toronto Star 1996-2012 06/12/12)