Chabad Of Parkland Strengthens Faith After ‘Hate Crime’

Published May 8th, 2008

By Nicol Jenkins
Editor

Rabbi Yosef Biston stepped out of the Chabad of Parkland synagogue this past week in prayer shawls and was greeted by an act of hate: three swastikas spray-painted on the youth hall building and “Hitler” sprayed on a stop sign.

“This is the act of a coward. It’s a hate to faith and a hate to humanity,” Rabbi Biston told the Our Town News on the day of the incident, which occurred April 30.

A child walking to school saw the swastikas and told the Rabbi, who was performing a morning prayer service. Two swastikas were spray-painted on the front of the youth hall building and one swastika with the word “Heil” was spray-painted on the side of the building. Also, on a stop sign in front of the synagogue the words, “4 Hitler” were painted.

The Broward Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the crime. There have been no threats made to the synagogue, according to Biston.

“We don’t know who would have done something like this. We have never been threatened and are part of the city and friends with everyone,” he said, adding, “I didn’t expect something like this- not in Parkland.”

What the synagogue is referring to as a “hate crime” comes at a time when the Chabad of Parkland is celebrating Yom HaShoah, or Holocaust Memorial Day.

“That’s what makes this more tragic,” said Andrew Rosenkranz, Florida Regional Director for the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). “This is a tragic, disgusting and despicable act that brings a visceral reaction not just for Jews but anyone who is a caring person.”

Due to the ‘hate crime’, the synagogue held a prayer vigil for its members and others who also have been victims. Just a few weeks ago, the Chabad of Miami was burned down and someone stole the Torah.

“We will continue with greater strength,” said Rabbi Biston.
The synagogue also plans to add a full security system with more security cameras and a fence around the facility. The city of Parkland has also agreed to paint over the swastikas.

In addition, the Broward County Sheriff’s Office is seeking any information on the crime and Crimestoppers is offering up to a $1,000 reward.
Contact Broward Crimestoppers at 866-493-8477 or submit a tip at www.broward.com

Being a new synagogue, Chabad of Parkland is also seeking donations to add more security, contact Rabbi Biston at 954-970-9551 or visit www.chabadofparkland.com.