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Queens Synagogue Vandalized with Swastikas; Officials Demand Security.

5/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Vandalism spray-painted swastikas on a Queens synagogue that houses a preschool and a Holocaust-memorial plaque.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani called the attacks deliberate antisemitic hatred and said the NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force will hold perpetrators accountable.
City Council Speaker Julie Menin visited the affected synagogues, calling the graffiti terrifying signals of hatred and urging increased security funding.

History

Historical Context

Recent vandalism of a Queens synagogue revives New York’s history of anti-Jewish attacks. In March 1994, Rashid Baz shot a Chabad van on the Brooklyn Bridge, killing one and wounding three; the 1991 Crown Heights riot lasted three days and was later called a “pogrom” by Rudy Giuliani. Officials now cite those events to justify increased security funding.

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Story summary

Vandalism spray-painted swastikas on a Queens synagogue that houses a preschool and a Holocaust-memorial plaque.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani called the attacks deliberate antisemitic hatred and said the NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force will hold perpetrators accountable.
City Council Speaker Julie Menin visited the affected synagogues, calling the graffiti terrifying signals of hatred and urging increased security funding.

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