Mayor condemns antisemitic vandalism at Ventura synagogue and park

Mayor Dr. Jeannette Sánchez-Palacios released a statement Sept. 9 condemning antisemitic vandalism that targeted Temple Beth Torah, Higher Vision Church, and Juanamaria Park in Ventura.

What happened. Swastikas and other hateful imagery were spray-painted at the locations, according to the city news release.

The mayor's statement. "I am deeply disturbed by the antisemitic vandalism targeting Temple Beth Torah, Higher Vision Church, and Juanamaria Park, including the spray-painting of swastikas and other hateful imagery," Sánchez-Palacios said in the statement.

"Antisemitism, hate, and intimidation have no place in Ventura. An act intended to make members of our Jewish community feel unsafe is an attack on the values we share as a community," she said.

She added: "To our Jewish neighbors, families, students, educators, and faith leaders: you are an important and valued part of Ventura. We stand with you. No one should have to fear being targeted because of their faith, culture, or identity."

On symbols of hate. The mayor said the community cannot become desensitized to symbols of hate. "A swastika is not simply graffiti. It carries a horrific history of antisemitism, persecution, and genocide, and its use to threaten or intimidate our neighbors must be taken seriously," she said.

City Council history. She noted the City Council has passed resolutions supporting inclusion and opposing racism and violence on Sept. 25, 2017; July 13, 2020; and Oct. 19, 2020.

Call to action. She asked colleagues on the City Council and all Ventura community members to join in solidarity with the Jewish community.

Anyone with information about the vandalism may contact the Ventura Police Department anonymously at 805-339-4416.