Emblem of SS Galizien

Other names:

Sometimes incorrectly confused with the Galician Lion; an element of the coats of arms of many regions and cities in the Galicia region.

Origin:

It originates from the symbols used by regions and cities in western Ukraine.

Uses:

The lion is a common heraldic symbol. A golden lion on a blue background is often found on the coats of arms of various states and cities in western Ukraine, as well as in the emblems of other regions, cities, and noble families throughout Europe and Israel.

In 1943, a variation of the lion was used in the emblem of the 14^th SS-Volunteer Division “Galicia,” a Waffen SS unit made up of local Ukrainians. The unit was later known as the 14^th Waffen Grenadier Division of the SS (1st Galician).

Use as a hate symbol:

It is used exclusively by the far-right in Ukraine and the Ukrainian far-right in other countries.

In Ukraine, it is used quite commonly to demonstrate nationalist, far-right views.

The mistaken use of this symbol can occur due to its popularity, as well as its resemblance to other lion symbols and its aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Due to the prevalence of lion symbols, it is important to take into account the context in which an SS Galizien symbol is used, and check for the presence of other far-right emblems and inscriptions. It is also important to verify that the given symbol corresponds directly with the image above, paying particular attention to whether or not crowns are included in the emblem.