Minnesota’s Largest Synagogue Defaced with Spray-painted Swastikas

Temple Israel in Minneapolis, Minn. Credit: AlexiusHoratius via Wikimedia Commons. AlexiusHoratius via Wikimedia Commons.

‘Regardless of one’s background, ethnicity or race, we must all condemn this vile act of hatred together,’ Minneapolis legislators said in a joint statement.

By JNS

Temple Israel in Minneapolis, the largest synagogue in Minnesota, was vandalized on Monday morning with spray-painted swastikas, city law enforcement stated.

Police say the crime is under investigation and that they have taken steps to address safety concerns at the synagogue.

Surveillance footage shows the suspect wearing a white hoodie, black face covering, black jogger pants and tan boots who, in less than two minutes, spray-painted two swastikas on doors and a pillar outside the building before fleeing in a silver Honda Civic.

A delegation of Minneapolis legislators condemned the crime, stating that it is “committed to uplifting and protecting the safety and freedom of religion for all of our constituents.”

“We are horrified to see these hateful symbols on Temple Israel,” the legislators said. “Regardless of one’s background, ethnicity or race, we must all condemn this vile act of hatred together. By taking a stand against antisemitism, we will create a more inclusive – and tolerant society for all.”

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, who is Jewish, wrote in response to the crime that “when hate is embraced or tolerated, it is emboldened.”

“I’ve seen antisemitism increase over the last year, yet too few have spoken out against it, opting for the safety of silence,” he wrote. “No matter one’s ethnicity or race, when any group is targeted, it’s on all of us to condemn it.”