Vandalism to ‘fortify’ Oregon Jewish Museum’s mission

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Antisemitic vandalism on the front doors and facade at the Oregon Jewish Museum in Portland “will fortify” the organization’s “dedication to dialogue, education and truth-telling,” Executive Director Rebekah Sobel said in a statement.

When swastikas were seen on the museum’s front doors and building on July 29, Sobel said, they “immediately notified” Portland police. Though they shared surveillance photos and footage, the case remains under investigation.

The vandalism “is a painful reminder of why our work matters,” Sobel said. “This act of antisemitism will fortify OJMCHE’s dedication to dialogue, education, and truth-telling, while standing in solidarity with communities targeted by hate. The museum remains committed to building a more just and compassionate world.”

Ibrahim Hooper, the national communications director for the Council on American-Islamic Relations, said they “condemn this vile act of neo-Nazi hate targeting a center dedicated to the preservation of Jewish history. Such cowardly acts have no place in our society and serve as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by growing bigotry nationwide.”

In June, a man painted a swastika on the door of the Pulse Wellness Cooperative in Northeast Portland. Surveillance video shows a man spray painting the swastika on the door of the clinic near 2700 NE Broadway. That incident also remains under investigation.

Anyone with information about either incident is asked to contact Portland police.