A popular Israeli restaurant in Brooklyn, Miriam, became the target of a hateful act of vandalism over the weekend. The incident, described by New York City Mayor Eric Adams as “a despicable act of antisemitism,” has drawn widespread condemnation from community leaders and elected officials. The restaurant, located in Park Slope, is known for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse clientele.
What Happened at Miriam Restaurant?
The Vandalism
Surveillance footage shows two individuals vandalizing the restaurant early Saturday morning. One person spray-painted red messages across the restaurant’s windows, while another individual stood nearby. The hateful graffiti included phrases like “genocide cuisine” and “Israel steals culture.”
Mayor’s Response
Mayor Eric Adams took to social media to share images of the damage, calling the attack a “despicable act of antisemitism.” He emphasized the city’s commitment to combating hate in all its forms and supporting the Jewish community.
Community and Leaders Rally Behind Miriam
Restaurant’s Resilient Response
In an Instagram post, the restaurant expressed its determination to remain a symbol of inclusivity and unity:
“We refuse to let this darken our spirit. Miriam stands for inclusivity and unity and bringing people together through the shared love of delicious food and warm hospitality.”
Support from Officials
The incident has drawn statements of solidarity and condemnation from several prominent leaders:
- Congressman Richie Torres: Torres expressed his unwavering support for Miriam and denounced the act as hateful and unacceptable.
- Senator Chuck Schumer: Schumer joined in condemning the attack, emphasizing the importance of standing together against antisemitism.
- Council Member Shahana Hanif: Representing the Park Slope neighborhood, Hanif called the act “hateful” and “threatening to the safety of our community.” She firmly stated, “Acts of hate have no place in our city.”
The Growing Threat of Antisemitism
A Troubling Pattern
This incident is part of a larger rise in antisemitic attacks across the U.S., particularly in major cities like New York. Acts of hate, whether verbal, physical, or symbolic, are creating fear among communities and challenging the sense of safety in diverse neighborhoods.
A Unified Call to Action
Community leaders and organizations continue to call for stronger measures to combat hate crimes, including increased awareness, education, and law enforcement action to hold perpetrators accountable.
The vandalism at Miriam restaurant serves as a stark reminder of the importance of standing against hate in all its forms. While the attack was a distressing event, the outpouring of support from local leaders and the community underscores New York City’s resilience and commitment to inclusivity.
Miriam, a beloved Park Slope institution, remains a beacon of unity, determined to continue spreading its message of love and hospitality despite adversity.
