Early Wednesday, individuals identifying as pro-Palestinian activists vandalized the homes of top leaders at the Brooklyn Museum, including its Jewish director, by throwing red paint. They also targeted diplomatic buildings for Germany and the Palestinian Authority, leading to a police investigation and widespread condemnation from city officials.
Mayor Eric Adams denounced the actions on social media, labeling them as criminal acts and blatant antisemitism. He emphasized that these acts are not forms of peaceful protest or free speech and offered his support to Anne Pasternak, the museum’s director, and other affected museum board members. Adams assured that such actions would not be tolerated in New York City.
The Brooklyn Museum’s spokesperson, Taylor Maatman, confirmed that four officials were targeted, not all of whom are Jewish. The museum has filed a report with the police and condemned the vandalism as an attempt to threaten and intimidate individuals connected to the institution. The museum reaffirmed its commitment to fostering mutual understanding through art and culture while rejecting violence and vandalism.
Brooklyn Museum Leaders and Diplomatic Buildings Vandalized by Pro-Palestinian Activists
In addition to the Brooklyn Museum, red paint was thrown on buildings housing Germany’s consulate, its United Nations mission, and a Palestinian diplomatic office in Manhattan. Flyers critical of the Palestinian Authority and its president, Mahmoud Abbas, were found scattered outside one of the buildings. The New York Police Department is investigating the incidents, with German mission security in close contact with local authorities.
The Brooklyn Museum has previously been the site of protests, including a recent demonstration where protesters briefly occupied the lobby and displayed a “Free Palestine” banner.
The protest group Within Our Lifetime and other organizers have accused the museum of complicity in Israel’s military actions through its connections with leadership and sponsors, although museum officials deny these claims. While the group denied coordinating the paint attacks, it expressed support for actions against institutions they consider complicit.
City Comptroller Brad Lander and other politicians criticized the protests and vandalism, highlighting the museum’s efforts to address issues of power, colonialism, and racism. Lander described the vandalism as antisemitic and harmful to the protesters’ cause. The Brooklyn Museum, located near Crown Heights, has a history of ideological confrontations, including past controversies and protests over various exhibits and events.
