A Statement on Antisemitic Vandalism at a Brooklyn Playground

The antisemitic vandalism of a playground in Brooklyn this week, where Jewish children and families gather to feel safe and joyful, is an attack on the very fabric of our shared humanity. This hateful use of the swastika is not just graffiti; it is a deliberate attempt to intimidate Jewish neighbors and normalize a symbol of genocide in a space meant for children.

As a Muslim, I will never tolerate that any person’s religion or ethnicity be threatened or targeted. When Jewish communities are attacked, Muslims, Christians, Buddhists and people of every background must stand together in clear moral solidarity. An assault on one community’s safety is an assault on all of us.

At Parents for Peace, we work every day to prevent the radicalization of vulnerable individuals who are drawn into hateful ideologies that scapegoat Jews. This kind of antisemitic vandalism is not a “prank”; it is part of a pattern of dehumanization that can escalate into extremist violence if left unchallenged.

This moment demands more than statements of concern. Community leaders, elected officials, educators, and faith leaders must act:

• To unequivocally condemn antisemitism and all forms of hate.

• To invest in prevention, education, and mental health support that address the roots of radicalization.

• To ensure that our parks, schools, and houses of worship are protected so that every child can play, learn, and worship without fear.

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Brooklyn, and every community in our country must remain a place where all children can grow up in safety and peace, knowing that adults around them will not look away when hatred appears, but will confront it together with courage and compassion.

For parents and educators concerned about students being exposed to antisemitic content and hate, download this guide from our Director of Training & Trauma Services, Miri Bar-Halpern PsyD: Supporting Jewish Students During Rising Antisemitism.

Why This Matters—Now Jewish students are living in the context of a global rise in antisem.

Download • 87KB

Myrieme Churchill

Executive Director of Parents for Peace