UPDATE: Antisemitic graffiti has been discovered in Encino, Los Angeles, marking a disturbing trend of hate speech across Southern California. This incident, reported on Saturday, is the third consecutive week that communities in the region have been targeted, raising urgent concerns among residents.
Multiple businesses along Ventura Boulevard were defaced with hateful messages, including the offensive phrase “Israel did 9/11” spray-painted on a utility box. Neighbors expressed their disgust and fear, with one resident stating, “It’s scary, first of all, and second of all, it’s just sad.” The ongoing vandalism has left the community on edge, leading many to believe that these acts of hate are becoming normalized.
The graffiti also included swastika symbols, targeting Jewish-owned businesses in the area. Residents who spoke to Eyewitness News chose to remain anonymous for safety reasons, emphasizing their belief that the current political climate is fueling this rise in antisemitism. One neighbor remarked, “When we have leaders promoting hateful speech, this is then the consequence of it.”
Authorities are taking these incidents seriously. In recent weeks, similar acts of vandalism have occurred in other neighborhoods, including a backwards swastika found in Camarillo and antisemitic writings discovered near Wilbur Elementary in Tarzana.
Local officials are responding swiftly. Mayor Karen Bass condemned the vandalism, stating, “Recent instances of antisemitism in Valley neighborhoods are absolutely unacceptable.” She announced that the LAPD will conduct extra patrols around Jewish places of worship and the surrounding community this weekend to ensure safety.
Councilwoman Nithya Raman confirmed that her team acted quickly to remove the graffiti, stating, “Our office will always promptly respond in coordination with our city partners to remove such vandalism in support of our community.” Residents are encouraged to report any instances of hateful graffiti immediately to law enforcement.
This surge in antisemitic messages highlights a troubling trend in Southern California, prompting calls for increased vigilance and community solidarity. As neighbors continue to grapple with these incidents, the hope is to foster a safer environment for all.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
