Schakowsky’s Statement on Vandalism at Temple Menorah in Rogers Park

WASHINGTON, DC — (September 22, 2010) Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) released the following statement today in response to acts of vandalism at Temple Menorah, located at 2800 W. Sherwin in Chicago.

"I strongly condemn the vandalization of Temple Menorah that was discovered early this morning. The news is particularly shocking and painful to me because Temple Menorah is the synagogue where I worshiped with my family growing up in Rogers Park.

"The defacing of property at Temple Menorah is a sad and cowardly act: the canvas sides of the outdoor Sukkah–the temporary structure used in the upcoming holiday Sukkot that commemorates Israelites' wandering in the desert after their Exodus from Egypt–were found slashed and building windows were broken.

"I have always denounced the desecration of any place of worship, regardless of faith, and I believe that in the wake of this disturbing event, we must rally together to promote the tenet of religious tolerance that our country was founded on. As a member of Chicago's Jewish community, I know that our strength and resilience will win out over this shameful act of cowardice....