Austin mosques targeted by vandalism, CAIR-Austin says

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AUSTIN, Texas - CAIR-Austin is calling for more security after three mosques were targeted by vandalism.

VIDEO: Austin mosques vandalized

The backstory:

The Austin chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Austin) is calling on the Austin Police Department to increase security patrols around Nueces Mosque, Islamic Ahlul Bayt Association (IABA), and other Austin mosques.

This comes after the Austin Diyanet Center, Nueces, and IABA mosques were targeted by vandalism.

CAIR-Austin said on May 22, around 11:30 p.m., Nueces Mosque leadership found spray-painted symbols, including the Stars of David, on the mosque's main entrance and other surrounding areas.

VIDEO: Mosques vandalized in Austin

The Austin chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Austin) reported seeing three mosques vandalized

Video shared by CAIR-Austin showed a white man with a covered face spray-painting the porch doors, the Imam’s office door, and the fence.

IABA’s billboards and gate were also targeted.

The Austin Diyanet Center's billboard and entrance door were vandalized as well.

CAIR-Austin said Nueces Mosque has reported four hate incidents since late October 2024.

What they're saying:

In a statement, Shaimaa Zayan, CAIR-Austin Operations Manager said:

"These two incidents, which reportedly took place at the same night, were apparently targeted attacks meant to instill fear and division. One of the mosques affected, Nueces Mosque, serves as a vital spiritual and cultural center for UT Austin university students. The impact of such hateful acts on young minds cannot be overstated. We call upon APD to urgently heighten security and surveillance around all Islamic Centers in Austin. We also urge members of the public who may recognize the perpetrator or have any relevant information to come forward immediately and contact authorities."

The Austin Police Department also released a statement:

"The Austin Police Department is aware of several incidents of vandalism at local Austin mosques. We are actively investigating these incidents and are closely monitoring these and other locations around the City. As we continue to investigate, APD has set up directed patrols at all mosque locations.

We strongly encourage our community to come forward and report any suspicious activity. Please follow the method of "See Something, Say Something." Should you observe any suspicious activities or become aware of potential threats, it is imperative you report them by calling 9-1-1.

We all belong in this community. APD remains unwavering in its commitment to fostering a secure and inclusive Austin community. Our ongoing efforts aim to ensure a community where every member feels safe, valued, and respected.

The City of Austin’s "We All Belong" campaign highlights our dedication to fostering a diverse culture where hatred is not tolerated. For more information on tools and resources to report hate crimes and related incidents, visit austintexas.gov/againsthate."

Big picture view:

CAIR says the Islamic Center of Southern California in Los Angeles was also vandalized earlier this month.