October 7 memorial vandalised
“It shows a concerning absence of empathy and respect for the suffering of others.”
A permanent public artwork commemorating the impact of the October 7 attacks has been vandalised, less than two weeks after it was officially unveiled in Sydney’s eastern suburbs.
Commissioned by Waverley and Wollahra Councils and the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies (JBD), “In Them We See Ourselves” was unveiled at Christison Park, Vaucluse on Friday, July 24.
A photo shared to social media this week revealed the plaque accompanying the sculpture had been smeared with faeces. It was promptly cleaned by Woollahra Council.
A Woollahra Council spokesperson said, “Woollahra Council is disappointed by this act of vandalism.
“The memorial’s plaque was swiftly cleaned last night. There is no permanent damage.”
A Waverley Council spokesperson said, “Council is disappointed by this blatant act of vandalism. We thank Woollahra Council for their swift action in dealing with the matter.”
JBD CEO Michele Goldman said, “We are deeply disappointed that this memorial, created as a place of reflection and healing, has been vandalised so soon after its unveiling.
“It shows a concerning absence of empathy and respect for the suffering of others.”