Mezuzah removed and swastika-linked drawing found at Callaway House before Jewish High Holidays

September 22, 2026

A student who asked to remain anonymous said they returned to Callaway House after Labor Day Weekend and discovered a mezuzah, a sacred Jewish object, had been removed from their door. A rabbi from UT Austin Chabad had helped residents place mezuzahs outside rooms ahead of the Jewish High Holidays.

Days later residents found a drawing in a Callaway House study room. The image depicted a Star of David holding hands with a swastika, with the words "love kills hate" below it, the word "hate" above the Star of David, and the word "love" above the swastika.

The student described feeling scared and disappointed and asked for anonymity out of fear of retaliation. They said the timing intensified concern, since the Jewish High Holidays begin with Rosh Hashanah at sundown Sept. 11 and end with Yom Kippur after nightfall on Monday.

Affected residents contacted Callaway House management and filed reports with the UT Police Department. A Callaway House spokesperson said the investigation is ongoing.

Callaway House sent an email to residents and parents outlining next steps and reiterating a no-tolerance policy. "We are deeply saddened and disturbed by this behavior, which does not reflect our values at Callaway House," the spokesperson wrote, adding "We have zero tolerance for harassment or discrimination in our community and are dedicated to creating environments where all students can thrive both personally and academically."

The residence is working with UTPD to boost security measures, the spokesperson said. The student said the administration is treating the incidents as a hate crime, and they appreciated that recognition.

New measures include additional security presence near the building entrance at night and proposed safety workshops on securing rooms and staying safe after dark, the student said. Callaway House representatives are also coordinating with UT Austin Chabad to identify further ways to support Jewish students.

The student noted the period between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur is meant to be a time of forgiveness and renewal, and said they hope the community can come together in response to the incidents.