CAIR-NY Welcomes Arrest of Teen in Brooklyn Playground Antisemitic Vandalism Case

(NEW YORK, NY, 1/23/26) - The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, condemns antisemitic vandalism discovered at Gravesend Park in the Borough Park playground.  

SEE: Local leaders set to speak out after Brooklyn playground covered with swastikas 

At least 57 swastikas were discovered on Wednesday morning, while additional graffiti was found earlier in the week. The situation was investigated by the New York City Police Department’s Hate Crimes Task Force as aggravated harassment and a hate crime. A 15-year-old boy was arrested the same day. 

In a statement, CAIR-NY Executive Director Afaf Nasher, Esq., said:  

“Hate has no place in our communities, and no child should ever encounter symbols of terror or intimidation at a place of play and innocence. This incident is part of a disturbing pattern of antisemitic attacks that threaten the safety and wellbeing of Jewish New Yorkers and all marginalized communities across our city." 

CAIR-NY commends local leaders, including New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin and other elected officials, for their swift condemnation of the vandalism.  

CAIR-NY's mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.  

La misión de CAIR-NY es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.  

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CONTACT  

Afaf Nasher, Esq. CAIR-NY Executive Director, ANasher@cair.com    

CAIR-NY Communications Team, comms@ny.cair.com