Vernon Hills synagogue reports antisemitic graffiti; rabbi thanks community for large interfaith turnout

Rabbi Ari Margolis told the Lake County Board on Sept. 9 that Congregation Or Shalom in Vernon Hills discovered antisemitic graffiti a week earlier and that the vandalism triggered generational trauma and fear for members. Margolis said more than 500 people attended a Friday-night service organized in response and that more than 100 letters of support came from elected officials, clergy and community leaders.

The rabbi thanked board members who attended the interfaith gathering and said the large turnout and letters of support helped congregants feel safer and less isolated. Margolis urged county leaders to speak out early and often against all forms of hate, including antisemitism, racism and anti-immigrant attacks, and to stand with targeted communities when incidents occur.