France / 10-10-2012
Desecration of Jewish cemetery
Avignon - On the night of Monday to Tuesday, individuals have degraded both marble stele at the entrance to the Jewish cemetery in Avignon and adjacent to the municipal cemetery of Avignon.
One representing a Star of David, the other marked "Jewish cemetery". For leaders of the Jewish community of Avignon, it is an act of vandalism against the antisemitic nature no doubt. The police opened an investigation, including samples were made.
Jacques Attali, president of the Israelite cult Avignon says: "We still live on, still have a feeling of insecurity, and it occurs, materializes through gestures like this."
If vandals have not penetrated inside the cemetery, but have struggled on both Jewish symbols, Jacques Attali wants to see "[...] an act of provocation. In the current context, and especially since the case Merah, there are people who want revenge. "
If the Jewish community recognizes Avignon live in a relatively calm atmosphere, however, it is still the second time in ten years that the Jewish cemetery is the target of vandalism. Five years ago, the community center Avignon had also been damaged by a grenade plaster. The prefecture is taking the matter seriously, and the Chief of Staff of the Prefect, Oliver Dyer went on site yesterday morning to see the damage. An investigation is underway and being used to destroy the headstones will be analyzed. For now, the Jewish community of Avignon, which closes this week a period of religious holidays is seeking an appointment with Marie-Josée Roig to explore options to optimize the safety of the cemetery.
"We will also be vigilant. This time the act took place at the cemetery, and fortunately no member of our community was hurt ..."
