An Islamic center at Rutgers University in New Jersey was vandalized on the Muslim holiday of Eid-al-Fitr, with authorities investigating the incident as a hate crime. The Center for Islamic Life at Rutgers University reported significant damage to its building, including shattered windows, smashed artwork, broken TVs and printers, and a destroyed Palestinian flag.
The chairwoman of the center, Atiya Aftab, condemned the act as a clear display of Islamophobia and a targeted hate crime against the Muslim population at Rutgers. The incident, which occurred at around 4:30 a.m. on Wednesday in New Brunswick, is being investigated by the Rutgers University Police Department as a burglary, criminal mischief, and bias crime.
New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin expressed his dismay over the vandalism, labeling it as appalling. He assured that his office, along with other officials, is actively working to investigate the incident and emphasized that acts of hate against the Muslim community will not be tolerated in New Jersey.
This incident follows a recent increase in bias incidents reported by Platkin's office in the state, highlighting the importance of addressing and combating such acts of intolerance and discrimination. The Rutgers University community and local authorities are united in their efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals, regardless of their religious beliefs.
