Massachusetts

Swastikas Found in Middle School Bathrooms in Melrose

Authorities are investigating after two swastikas were found in the bathrooms of a middle school in Melrose, Massachusetts.

Police and school officials are working to determine who left the anti-Semitic graffiti in two boys' rooms in Melrose Veterans Memorial Middle School.

One swastika was found after school was dismissed Friday in the fourth floor boys' room. Another was found on the back of the door to the second floor boys' room Monday morning.

Melrose Police were notified after both discoveries. School officials do not know how many students saw the graffiti, but they are urging parents to discuss hateful words and symbols with their children.

The swastikas were removed before the bathrooms were reopened.

"Erasing the graffiti does not erase the hate expressed and hurt caused to others," Superintendent Cyndy Taymore said in a statement. "This will not be tolerated in our community, and we are committed to a full and thorough investigation. Actions have consequences, and no member of our community should live in fear."

"I am very troubled by the escalating pattern of anti-Semitic messages and actions in our country right now, and there is no room for pleading ignorance," said Melrose Police Chief Michael Lyle in a statement. "Hateful symbols and words convey a universal message that certain groups of people should be afraid, and while that is not what Melrose is all about, we need to confront the reality in our community so that we can show our collective strength and solidarity."

Students at the middle school will take part in a discussion about hateful language and symbols on Nov. 13.

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