On New Year’s Day, vandals trespassed onto the grounds of Islander Middle School (IMS) on Mercer Island, Washington, defacing numerous windows and exterior walls with antisemitic and racist symbols and phrases. The vandalism occurred on the 8th night of the Jewish holiday of Hannukah. Mercer Island is home to one of the largest Jewish populations in the state.
In a joint letter released after the vandalism was discovered, Fred Rundle, Superintendent of the Mercer Island School District, City Manager Jessi Bon, Mercer Island Chief of Police Chris Sutter and the school's co-principals Mary Jo Budzius and Aaron Miller wrote in a statement obtained by The Ari Hoffman Show on Talk Radio 570 KVI, “This abhorrent act of hate is not only a violation of our community’s shared values, but an attack on the principles of inclusion, respect, and safety that we work every day to uphold in our community. As School Superintendent, School Principals, City Manager, and Chief of Police of Mercer Island, we condemn this hateful antisemitic, and racist act.”
“As leaders in this community, we are angry, disappointed, and deeply saddened by this incident. Antisemitism, hate, and racism in any form have no place in our schools, our city, or anywhere in our society. We are committed to holding those responsible accountable for their actions and ensuring that IMS - and all Mercer Island schools - remain spaces where every student and family feels safe, valued, and respected.”
“Mercer Island Police Department (MIPD) officers were onsite this morning to document this hate-fueled crime. Meanwhile, Mercer Island School District (MISD) staff began removing the graffiti to ensure that students and staff return to a clean and welcoming campus. MISD and MIPD have reviewed the IMS security footage and are working collaboratively throughout the investigation process.”
The officials said they were working with local Jewish organizations, adding, “In the coming days and as school resumes after the winter break on Monday, MISD will work closely with the MIPD, students, families, and community leaders to address the impact of this hateful act and strengthen our ongoing efforts to promote belonging and inclusion. MISD will also be providing additional support and resources to students and staff affected by this incident.”
Images of the vandalism were not provided to the media but some remnants of the graffiti were visible on Friday. Officials are urging anyone with information about this incident to come forward and assist in the investigation.
Earlier in the holiday, someone vandalized the outdoor public menorah at the "Uptown Gig Harbor" shopping center, tearing out its lights, as well as damaging and denting the frame.
Rabbi Mendel Kesselman with Chabad of Pierce County, which installed the menorah in Gig Harbor, told KIRO 7 in response to the more than 10,000 antisemitic incidents in the US since the Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, “It’s definitely been difficult. Our people who fear, who feel isolated, and scared,” but added the solution is to “Continue spreading more light. While it did happen…we constantly focus on the positive. That’s the whole message of Hannukah. That’s all about light. We will continue focusing on the light, spreading light.”
