
Muscatine, IA — Mayor Brad Clark took to social media to call out racist graffiti scrawled across two beloved local restaurants, Jibaro de Puerto Rico Restaurant and Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant. The vandalism, which included threatening messages and swastikas, drew widespread condemnation from residents and the mayor.
Jibaro Restaurant: “Here We Do Not Know Fear”
Jibaro Restaurant, the only Puerto Rican restaurant in Muscatine, faced exterior damage when vandals defaced its walls and the Puerto Rican flag painted on the building. On January 26, the restaurant’s owners expressed resilience and gratitude for the community’s support. “Jibaro is sure that these types of people do not represent the community of Muscatine,” they wrote on their business social media page. “We continue to plan for our contribution to Muscatine. Let it be understood that these threats will never stop Jibaro. Here we do not know fear.”
They took the next day to clean and regroup, alerting customers and followers that they’re not intimidated and continue to support the community. “We’re more committed than ever to contributing to Muscatine’s future,” they posted. “We’ll be back for business this Thursday!”
Jibaro de Puerto Rico Restaurant is owned by Ramon Rentas, and opened on October 17, 2024 in downtown Muscatine. He and his family have been Muscatine residents since 2006.
Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant: “Love Triumphs Over Hate”

Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant was also targeted with hateful vandalism, but the owners, the Vazquez family, chose to focus on the overwhelming community response.
“While this incident was painful, we are overwhelmed with gratitude for the outpouring of support, kindness, and love from all of you in our community,” they posted. “Your words, gestures, and presence have reminded us that love truly triumphs over hate.”
The family reaffirmed their commitment to celebrating culture and creating a welcoming space for all. “Together, we are stronger, and together, we will continue to build a community where everyone feels valued and respected,” they added.
The Martinez family, who bought the restaurant in 2009, have been long-time supporters of their city, often donating food and drinks for fundraisers benefitting local charities.
Mayor Brad Bark Speaks Out Against Hate
Muscatine Mayor Brad Bark swiftly addressed the incidents on social media, calling on residents to share information and stand in unity against such hateful acts.
“Over the weekend, our community faced a troubling incident involving the vandalism of local buildings with swastikas,” Bark stated. “Let me be very clear: we do not condone this kind of hate-filled behavior in our community. Such acts are absolutely disgusting and have no place here in Muscatine.”
The mayor urged anyone with information to contact local authorities, emphasizing the community’s collective responsibility to uphold values of unity and respect and to support the targeted eateries.
A Community United
Since the incidents, social media platforms have been flooded with messages of support and offers to support the restaurants,help repair the damage and neighboring businesses are checking their security cameras for anything that may help find who is responsible.
As the investigation continues, the mayor and restaurant owners encourage the community to remain steadfast in its resolve to rise above hate and promote inclusivity. In the words of one resident’s post, “Hate has no home here. We are Muscatine, and together, we will heal.”