Nadine Osman
Three mosques in Austin, Texas, were targeted in an apparent series of coordinated hate crimes late on May 21, prompting widespread concern and renewed calls for enhanced protection of Muslim places of worship.
The affected sites include the Nueces Mosque, the Islamic Ahlul Bayt Association (IABA), and the Austin Diyanet Center. All three reported instances of vandalism featuring spray-painted Stars of David and other graffiti. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) has condemned the acts as part of a “disturbing pattern” of Islamophobic targeting.
Security footage from the Nueces Mosque captured a masked white male defacing multiple areas, including the entrance, the Imam’s office, and a nearby fence.
Similar markings were discovered shortly afterwards at IABA’s entrance gate and signboards, and at the front of the Diyanet Center. CAIR-Austin said the incidents, all occurring in the same night, appeared to be deliberate efforts “meant to instil fear and division.”
“These are clearly targeted attacks,” said Shaimaa Zayan, CAIR-Austin’s Operations Manager. “We urge the Austin Police Department (APD) to increase security and surveillance measures around all Islamic centres in the city.”
In response, the APD confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that it has already stepped-up patrols around local mosques. “Austin Police remain committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all,” said Public Information Manager Lisa Cortinas.
The Nueces Mosque, located near the University of Texas at Austin, has experienced at least four hate-related incidents since October. The mosque primarily serves the university’s Muslim student community and frequently hosts interfaith events to promote dialogue and understanding.
“We are deeply troubled by these attacks, especially against the backdrop of rising Islamophobia, anti-immigrant sentiment, and growing hostility toward students expressing their views,” said board member Rawand Abdelghani.
CAIR is encouraging mosque leaders to implement its recommended security protocols outlined in its guide, Best Practices for Mosque and Community Safety. The group has also urged members of the public to come forward with any information that could assist in the investigation.
Photo: Three US mosques in Austin, Texas were targeted by “Star of David” vandalism on May 21. (Credit: Council on American-Islamic Relations).
