Antisemitic Graffiti Spraypainted at Iconic Fairfax Restaurant Sparks Hate Crime Probe
By Dolores Quintana
Authorities have initiated a hate crime investigation after antisemitic graffiti was found in the Fairfax District, including slogans spray-painted on a wall outside the renowned Canter’s Deli in Los Angeles and other businesses, as reported by KTLA 5 News.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath released a statement on social media that said, “The rise of antisemitism in our region & our country is alarming & unacceptable. We must root it out wherever it exists & stand with our Jewish community to actively show that they are not fighting this hatred alone. Sending love to everyone at Canter’s Deli (@cantersdeli).’
Most of the graffiti was discovered beneath a mural illustrating Jewish history in the city. Located in the historic Fairfax District, Canter’s Deli is a cherished California establishment, run by a third- and fourth-generation family since its establishment in 1931. On Wednesday at approximately 10:30 a.m., police officers responded to the incident at the 400 block of North Fairfax Avenue. Additionally, it was reported that similar messages were painted on plywood at Chabad-Atara’s Judaica.
As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the incident, and law enforcement has urged anyone with information to contact them at 213-473-0476.
The California chapter of the Anti-Defamation League issued a statement through Regional Director Jeffrey Abrams, condemning the act. Abrams expressed his strong disapproval, stating, “Vandalizing and targeting synagogues, Jewish neighborhoods, and a mural portraying local Jewish history on the wall of the iconic Canter’s Deli on Fairfax Avenue is heinous and antisemitic.” He emphasized the Los Angeles Police Department’s ongoing investigation into these incidents as hate crimes, urging anyone with information to cooperate with law enforcement.
Richard Hirschhaut, Los Angeles Director for the American Jewish Committee, noted a significant increase in hate crimes against the Jewish community following a recent terrorist attack and the onset of a conflict. He stressed the impact of words, stating, “Words have power. Words have consequences,” and emphasized the need for accountability among those responsible for such acts of vandalism.
