JCRC Condemns Vandalism of Hmong Cultural Center

September 9, 2021

Minneapolis, MN – Steve Hunegs, executive director of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas (JCRC), issued the following statement:

“The Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas (JCRC) condemns the white nationalist vandalization at the Hmong Cultural Center in St. Paul, just days after its new museum sign was installed and weeks before the museum was set to open to the public. The slogan ‘Life, Liberty, Victory,’ which is associated with the white supremacist group Patriot Front, was reported to be stenciled over the white paint vandals sprayed on the artwork covering the building.

“We extend our support to the Hmong Cultural Center and the Hmong community. All communities should feel safe in their cultural spaces.

“We thank the St. Paul Police Department for investigating this apparent hate crime – which was recorded on security cameras at the tattoo parlor next door – and encourage anyone with additional information about this incident to contact law enforcement.”

Photo: The Hmong Cultural Center in St.Paul on Sept. 8, 2021. (Courtesty of Hmong Cultural Center via Pioneer Press)

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As the public affairs voice of the Jewish community, the JCRC fights antisemitism and prejudice, advocates for Israel, provides Holocaust education, promotes tolerance and social justice, and builds bridges across the Jewish and broader communities.

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As the consensus public affairs voice of the Jewish community, JCRC builds relationships to fight antisemitism and bigotry; educates about Judaism, Israel, antisemitism, and the Holocaust; advocates for Jewish values and priorities; and safeguards our community.