Anti-Jewish Graffiti at Pasadena Jewish Temple Draws Condemnation from Officials

The Pasadena Jewish Temple and Cente on Jan. 7, 2025 (File Photo – PasadenaJewishTempleCenter)

U.S. Rep. Judy Chu and Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger both condemned vandalism and anti-Jewish graffiti discovered Tuesday at the Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center.

By News Desk

Chu denounced the vandalism, noting that it occurred just days after the congregation marked the one-year anniversary of the Eaton Fire, which destroyed the temple’s entire campus.

“I am horrified by the vandalism of the Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center, especially coming just days after we marked the one-year anniversary of the Eaton Fire that tragically destroyed its entire campus,” Chu said. “For over a century, the Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center has been a beloved community institution and safe haven for our Jewish neighbors and loved ones. I stand with the congregation and the Jewish community as we await the results of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s investigation. Hate has no place in the San Gabriel Valley.”

Barger also condemned the incident, calling it a “despicable hate crime” targeting a community still healing and rebuilding after last year’s Eaton Fire.

“I am deeply disturbed by the vandalism and anti-Jewish graffiti discovered at the Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center,” Barger said, adding that such acts have no place in Los Angeles County. She said she is closely monitoring the investigation and stands ready to support law enforcement and community partners as needed.

The Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center said the vandalism comes as the congregation continues to recover from the fire, which destroyed the campus and left many congregants without homes. In a statement, temple leaders emphasized resilience and unity, noting that while the physical campus was lost, the community remains strong.

“A home is where your people are,” the statement read. The congregation said it will continue to gather, pray, learn, support those in need, and rebuild, while expressing gratitude to first responders and those who have offered support during recovery efforts.

Authorities are investigating the incident.