Swastikas and antisemitic graffiti were spray-painted on a mural at the Pasadena Jewish Center and Temple in California, marking the second act of vandalism at the site since the synagogue was destroyed in last year's devastating Eaton Fire.
The vandalism occurred Friday, and authorities have launched a hate crime investigation. Officials have not said how many suspects may have been involved or whether surveillance cameras captured the incident.
The newly unveiled mural, created by Jewish scenic artist Miriam Hellman, featured a large orange California poppy and the Hebrew phrase, "We are all responsible for one another," a traditional expression of Jewish mutual responsibility. Community leaders said the mural was intended to serve as "a symbol of hope, resilience and solidarity" following the deadly Eaton Fire, which killed 19 people and destroyed more than 9,000 buildings.
The synagogue, which had served the community for more than a century, was completely destroyed in the wildfire. Since then, the congregation has continued operating from temporary locations and is now working to restore the damaged mural.
"The mural was brought to life through the vision and generosity of many," the congregation said in a statement. "We are deeply saddened and outraged by this act, but we refuse to let it define our community."
Capt. Ethan Marquez of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said hate crimes "have no place in our community."
Antisemitic graffiti sprayed on a wall earlier this year
(Photo: from X)
"We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation, holding those responsible accountable and standing with our Jewish community, all faith communities and every resident against all forms of hatred and intolerance," he said.
The congregation was founded in 1921 as B'nai Israel of Pasadena and served as a refuge for Jewish residents at a time when Jews and other minority groups were barred from purchasing property in Pasadena and surrounding communities because of restrictive housing covenants.
The congregation relocated to its Altadena site in 1941 and officially adopted its current name in 1949.
Congregation member Christine Garvey, an archaeologist, said the synagogue had housed an older mural dating to the 1920s before it was destroyed in the fire, although its origins remain a mystery.
The Jewish center said it is cooperating with investigators and plans to restore the mural. It remains unclear whether Hellman will participate in the restoration.