Oakland Cafe in federal crosshairs hit with vandalism

Abdulrahim Harara, the owner of Jerusalem Coffee House in North Oakland, reported vandalism after someone shattered a window of his cafe early Monday morning. This incident follows multiple lawsuits from Jewish organizations and the Department of Justice, which allege discrimination against Harara and his business. Harara has used his cafe as a venue for Palestinian advocacy, raising awareness and funds for those affected by the ongoing conflict. The Oakland Police Department is currently investigating the vandalism, which occurred between 11 p. m.

on October 5 and 1:30 a. m. on October 6. Harara claims the vandalism is part of a broader pattern of harassment, including hate mail and smear campaigns, directed at him and his community. A federal judge recently allowed the DOJ's discrimination lawsuit to proceed, citing sufficient allegations of discriminatory conduct.

Harara's menu includes items symbolizing solidarity with Gaza, which have drawn criticism from some organizations. The cafe's ongoing legal battles and this act of vandalism highlight the tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in the local community.