Woodland Hills

WOODLAND HILLS, CA – Vandalism targeting the Israeli-American Council (IAC) national headquarters occurred over the weekend, prompting a police inquiry and condemnation from community leaders.

What we know:

The IAC reported discovering graffiti on the sidewalk,building entrance,and surrounding barriers of the Shepher Community Center,located at 5803 Lindley Avenue in Woodland Hills. The vandalism included the phrase “F**k Jews” and symbols associated with the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement.Investigators also documented the letters “SS” – referencing the Nazi Schutzstaffel – spray-painted on the sidewalk. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is investigating the incident as a hate crime.

What we don’t know:

As of Monday morning,authorities have not publicly identified any suspects. The LAPD’s West Valley Division is handling the investigation, and detectives are appealing for witnesses.

What they’re saying:

“this act of hatred is deeply disturbing and unacceptable,” stated IAC CEO Joseph Gitler in a press release. “The Shepher Community Center serves as a vital hub for the Israeli-American and broader Jewish community in Los Angeles. We will not be intimidated by those who seek to spread hate and antisemitism.” Councilmember Bob Blumenfield, representing the 3rd District which includes Woodland Hills, condemned the vandalism, stating, “This is a despicable act of hate and has no place in our community.”

context: Rising Antisemitism

this incident occurs amid a documented rise in antisemitic incidents across the United States. According to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL),antisemitic incidents reached a record high in 2022,with 3,291 reported cases – a 36% increase from the previous year. The ADL tracks incidents of assault, harassment, and vandalism targeting Jewish individuals and institutions. The Shepher Community Center, opened in 2018, provides a range of programs and services for the Israeli-American community, including cultural events, educational initiatives, and social services. The IAC was founded in 2007 and represents over 250,000 Israeli-Americans nationwide.

What’s next:

The IAC is cooperating fully with the LAPD investigation and is reviewing security footage to identify potential suspects. The association has also increased security measures at the Shepher Community Center. Anyone with details regarding the vandalism is urged to contact the LAPD West Valley Division at (818) 345-2700.