Italian mural of Holocaust survivors defaced in act of antisemitism: ‘Damages walls but not history’
A mural of Holocaust survivors in Italy has been defaced in a “demented act” of vandalism, sparking outrage and condemnation across the country. The Milanese mural, created by artist aleXsandro Palombo, featured Holocaust survivors Liliana Segre and Sami Modiano, whose faces and Stars of David were scratched out. The artwork, unveiled on September 28, was intended to highlight the importance of Holocaust remembrance in the face of rising antisemitism in Europe.
The defacement of the mural came shortly after a pro-Palestinian rally in Milan, during which some demonstrators targeted Segre, a 94-year-old Italian senator, labeling her a “Zionist agent.” Palombo, in response to the hateful rhetoric, created the mural as a tribute to the survivors and a statement against antisemitism.
The vandalism has drawn widespread condemnation in Italy, with Mario Venezia, head of Italy’s Holocaust memorial museum, denouncing it as a “demented act” that “damages walls but not history.” Piero Fassino, an official from the Italian Democratic Party, also spoke out against the act, calling it a “cowardly assault on Holocaust memory.”
Palombo is known for his provocative murals that address sensitive and controversial issues. In the past, he has created works that tackle themes such as the Holocaust, terrorism, and social justice. His mural depicting Vlada Patapov, the “girl in red” who survived a Hamas attack, was also defaced shortly after its completion.
In response to the vandalism, Palombo emphasized the importance of standing against antisemitism and terrorism. He stated, “Terrorism is the very denial of humanity and has nothing to do with resistance. There can be no peace until terrorism is eradicated.”
The Rome Shoah Museum also condemned the vandalism, highlighting the significance of preserving memory and history in building a just society. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against hate and intolerance, and the importance of honoring the legacy of Holocaust survivors.
The defacement of the mural in Italy serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of the Holocaust and the need to confront antisemitism and bigotry in all its forms. It is a call to action for society to stand united against hatred and to preserve the memory of those who suffered during one of the darkest chapters in human history.
