Washington, D.C. | www.mpac.org | May 27, 2025 — The Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) stands in firm solidarity with the Muslim communities of Los Angeles and Austin following recent acts of vandalism targeting their houses of worship. These are not isolated incidents—they reflect a disturbing pattern of hate meant to intimidate and divide.
Given the striking similarities between the attacks, MPAC is calling for a federal investigation to determine whether there is any coordination or connection between the perpetrators. We have formally requested that the Department of Justice (DOJ) take immediate action to investigate.
On May 10, the Islamic Center of Southern California was defaced with graffiti, including a spray-painted Star of David:
Just days later, on May 22, three Austin mosques—the Nueces Mosque, the Islamic Ahlul Bayt Association, and the Austin Diyanet Center—were similarly vandalized with the same symbol. While the Star of David is sacred to the Jewish community, its use in these incidents appears intended to provoke division between faith communities.
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We commend the swift action taken by local law enforcement, including the LAPD’s hate crime investigation and increased patrols by the Austin Police Department. However, the seemingly coordinated nature of these attacks demands more. MPAC calls on the Department of Justice to launch a federal investigation into these incidents to explore any connections and address the broader rise in hate crimes targeting religious institutions.
These crimes are not just against property—they are attacks on the fundamental American principles of religious freedom and human dignity. In the face of hate, we find hope in the solidarity expressed by faith leaders across traditions. We must respond not with fear, but with unity, justice, and a renewed commitment to protecting every community’s right to worship in peace.