MULTIPLE HATE CRIMES - Synagogues Desecrated with Swastikas
Mayor Tweets Response
By Staff Reporter
Queens Voice
May 5, 2026
QUEENS, NY - Antisemitic vandalism in Queens has shaken residents and sparked outrage across New York City, after multiple sites in predominantly Jewish neighborhoods were defaced with hateful graffiti early Monday morning.
According to authorities, antisemitic graffiti incidents in Queens neighborhoods Rego Park and Forest Hills were reported within a short window of time, raising concerns about coordinated activity. Surveillance footage captured four individuals approaching the Rego Park Jewish Center just after 1 am, crouching near the building before quickly fleeing the scene.
By daylight, the extent of the damage became clear. Swastikas and other hate symbols had been spray-painted on the synagogue, prompting alarm among congregants and local families. For many, the location made the act even more disturbing. The synagogue is not just a place of worship—it also houses a daycare center and a senior center.
Rabbi Romiel Daniel described the moment as deeply unsettling, emphasizing how rare such incidents have been in the area. Community members echoed that sentiment, noting that hate crime targeting Jewish institutions in Queens residential communities is something they never expected to confront so directly.
Roughly a mile away in Forest Hills, similar acts unfolded just after 1:30 am Security footage showed the same number of suspects allegedly tagging a private residence. In total, multiple homes, a vehicle, and another synagogue on 108th Street were vandalized.
What made this incident particularly painful was the symbolism. At one synagogue, a swastika was spray-painted directly onto a plaque commemorating Jewish victims of persecution. The plaque honors those who lost their lives for their faith, making the act not just vandalism, but a deeply offensive gesture tied to historical trauma.
This has led to heightened concern over antisemitic hate symbols defacing Holocaust memorial plaques in New York City, an issue that resonates far beyond Queens. Residents expressed a mix of anger, disbelief, and sadness. Some longtime locals said they had always felt safe in their neighborhoods—until now.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani tweeted a statement on X: “I am horrified and angered. This is not just vandalism — it is a deliberate act of antisemitic hatred meant to instill fear.”
Officials confirmed that the NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force has launched an investigation, underscoring the seriousness of the case. Meanwhile, City Council Speaker Julie Menin visited the affected areas and spoke with local law enforcement. She called the incidents completely unacceptable, particularly given the strong Jewish presence in the community.
As the investigation continues, many are calling for stronger preventative measures. Advocates emphasize the importance of community education programs to prevent antisemitic vandalism and hate crimes, as well as increased security around religious institutions.
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