In two attacks, swastika stickers were placed on Jewish museums, once in May and once in September. Gay nightclub Mad Myrna was also busted with a swastika in May.
AJM and StandwithU Northwest have partnered to offer a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of a perpetrator of vandalism. Anyone with information is encouraged to call 3-1-1.
“There has been an increase in anti-Semitic behavior in Anchorage over the past few months, and we have seen a role for museums as community educators in taking a stand against these abhorrent acts,” Museum of Alaska Director Dixie Claw told Anchorage Press. “We want to make sure the museum attacker is brought to justice, and the Alaska Jewish community knows they are not alone. They have support across the state.”
“We are deeply disturbed by the recent attacks of anti-Semitic vandalism that the Alaska Jewish Museum in Anchorage has experienced,” the museums said. “Museum Alaska, the Alaska Museum, and museum staff members across the state stand in solidarity with curator Leslie Fried, the Alaska Jewish Museum and the Alaska Jewish Complex – offering support as the museum addresses these crimes and ensures the safety of its facilities. and the community.”
The museums said, “This vandalism is an attack on all of us and our institutions were established to tell inclusive Alaska history. History shows that malicious acts increase during uncertain times, and by people in positions of leadership.” They thrive when encouraged or ignored.” “We will not ignore this malicious act and we will work with the Alaska Jewish Museum to combat bigotry and prejudice in all its forms.”
The museums stress that education is one of the most important tools in combating hate crimes and encourage Alaska communities to “recognize that diversity is a force and to learn about the vibrant cultures and resourceful individuals that have shaped Alaska. encouraged for.”