Leaders decry antisemitism after vandalism at historic Philadelphia synagogue
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Leaders across faiths joined forces to speak out against antisemitism in Philadelphia on Wednesday.
It comes after a Center City synagogue became the target of vandals twice in one week.
"Mikveh Israel is a beacon of history, faith and resilience. It is a beacon of faith and history," said Michael Balaban, President and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia.
With its origin in 1740, the congregation has a history that dates back more than 280 years.
"We're the oldest Jewish congregation in the United States," said Leon Levy, former president of Congregation Mikveh Israel.
That history, though, is now marred by hate. After repeated acts of antisemitic vandalism over the past few months, leaders from Congregation Mikveh Israel now stand with the support of other leaders like the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia.
"Today we stand united to declare that we will not stand for hatred of any kind," said Balaban.
They also have the support of lawmakers like U.S. Representative Brendan Boyle.
"Incidents of antisemitism in the United States are at an all-time high, and it must stop," said Boyle (D - Pennsylvania)
Last week, vandals struck several days in a row at the synagogue in Center City. Two people tried to break into the building.
Another person vandalized a monument in front of the synagogue.
A third person set a dumpster on fire behind the synagogue.
Police are investigating whether the crimes are related. They're actively searching for suspects and investigating the case.
All three crimes were caught on camera.
"When we have incidents against out places of worship across the city, whether it be a mosque, whether it be a synagogue, whether it be a church, we have a duty," said Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel who joined with lawmakers and faith leaders at the Wednesday morning press conference in front of the synagogue.
"We stand firmly ready to further investigate these incidents and to prosecute them vigorously," said Philadelphia 1st Assist. District Attorney Robert Listenbee.
As the investigation continues, leaders of all faiths stand together to send a message.
"All we can and must do is step forward and speak out against hate," said Suhag Shukla of the Hindu American Foundation.
The shows of support were met with appreciation from the synagogue's Rabbi, Yosef Zarnighian.
"Governor Shapiro reached out to me personally, about which I was deeply honored and that level of support is something you don't see happening every day," he said.
It gives leaders of the historic synagogue hopethat, after standing for nearly three centuries, they can continue standing evenin the face of hate.
"God willing," said Zarnighian, "we'll see justice be brought and hopefully people will not repeat what they have done."
No arrests have been made. Anyone with information can call or text Philadelphia police at 215-686-TIPS (8477).
Videos released by police of the suspects:
Synagogue vandalism on 10/20/24
Synagogue attempted break-in on 10/22/24
Synagogue arson on 10/22/24
