The large outdoor menorah displayed in front of the Milwaukee Synagogue for Russian Jews was deliberately pushed over Nov. 10, the organization said in a statement.
The synagogue, at 3213 N. Oakland Ave. on Milwaukee’s east side, said that it reported the vandalism to the Milwaukee Police Department.
Rabbi Alexander Milchtein, spiritual leader of the congregation, called the act “deeply upsetting to our community, many of whom came to the United States after experiencing antisemitism in the former Soviet Union. Seeing a Jewish symbol intentionally damaged is painful, yet we remain committed to standing strong and visible.”
The synagogue has served Milwaukee’s Russian-speaking Jewish population for more than 30 years, offering religious services, community programs, cultural events, a food pantry and more.
Milwaukee police said they are investigating the incident. Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Police District One at 414-935-7212 or, to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 414-224-TIPS or by using the P3 Tips app.
This story was updated to add new information.
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee Synagogue for Russian Jews reports vandalism to large menorah
Reporting by Drake Bentley, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
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