Key Points:
- Swastikas were spray-painted in Clissold Park, Hackney, on Sunday, April 20, 2025.
- The vandalism occurred during the final day of Passover and Easter celebrations.
- Hate symbols appeared on stepping stones, a large rock, and a sand area.
- Blue paint was poured over a slide and trampoline, making them unusable.
- The Mayor of Hackney, Caroline Woodley, condemned the incident as “abhorrent”.
- Hackney Council’s cleaning team restored the park within two days.
- Residents of Stoke Newington expressed shock and anger on social media.
- No details yet on suspects; calls for CCTV footage review have been made.
Swastikas have been spray-painted across a children’s playground in Hackney during a major day in the Jewish calendar, sparking outrage among community members and local leaders.
What happened in Clissold Park on the final day of Passover?
Parkgoers discovered the vandalism around midday on Sunday, April 20. Multiple stepping stones in Stoke Newington‘s Clissold Park, as well as a large rock and a section of sand, were defaced with swastikas. In addition to the hate symbols, vandals poured blue paint down a children’s slide and across a trampoline, rendering them temporarily unusable.
The timing of the attack — on the final day of Passover and during Easter Sunday celebrations — has intensified the sense of community distress. Families from the significant Hasidic population in neighbouring Stamford Hill were among those in the park, celebrating The Exodus.
How did local officials respond to the vandalism?
The Mayor of Hackney, Caroline Woodley, swiftly condemned the graffiti. In a public statement posted to X (formerly Twitter) on April 21, she said: “Everyone should feel safe to play in Hackney,” and described the act as “abhorrent,” affirming that “there is no place for hate” in the borough.
Hackney Council’s cleaning teams acted promptly, working over two days to remove the offensive symbols and repaint the damaged play equipment. Officials have confirmed the park is now restored and open to the public as normal.
What has been the reaction from the community?
Local residents voiced deep concern and sadness over the incident. One Stoke Newington resident posted online: “This is quite scary and worrying. There are so many nasty things happening in this world but to do that in a children’s playground is disgusting.”
Another commenter questioned the safety measures at the park, writing: “Beautiful park, who would want to do that? Disgusting shame! Are there any CCTV cameras? Would love to catch who has done that. Can’t horrible people just leave things alone? What kind of world are we living in – a nasty mixed-up one.”
Are authorities investigating the incident?
At this time, no suspects have been identified, and it remains unclear whether any CCTV footage of the vandalism exists. Residents and community groups have called for a thorough review of surveillance systems in Clissold Park to aid any potential investigation.
The Metropolitan Police have yet to issue a public statement regarding the incident, but it is expected that hate crime units will be involved given the serious nature of the offence.
Why is this incident particularly significant?
The appearance of Nazi symbols during one of the most important Jewish holidays has heightened tensions and feelings of vulnerability within Hackney’s Jewish community. The location — a family-oriented public space — and the broader context of rising antisemitic incidents in the UK contribute to the seriousness with which officials and residents are treating the attack.
Hackney Council has reiterated its commitment to maintaining parks as safe, inclusive spaces for all families and has encouraged residents to report any suspicious behaviour.
As investigations continue, Hackney stands united in rejecting hate and protecting its vibrant, diverse community.
