An investigation was launched at the University of Ohio after racist and anti-Semitic graffiti was discovered in one of the institution’s academic buildings.
According to NBC 4i News, an Ohio State police officer filed a report on Monday after an employee discovered slurs and hate symbols spray-painted on multiple stairwell walls. The incident occurred in the Hitchcock Hall engineering building between November 9 and November 12.
The basement level of the building had a swastika, other pro-Nazi images, and the phrase “White Power Zone,” according to the report. Furthermore, the phrase “Whites Only” was spray-painted in red on the stairwell, along with another Black slur seen by the officer on the third floor.
Ohio State President Kristina M. Johnson issued a statement condemning the actions.
“There is no room for hate in our home,” Johnson said. “The university is where we work and live — and we will not tolerate violations of the values, principles and behaviors that constitute the shared values we agree to uphold when we become part of Ohio State.”
According to a spokesperson, the graffiti has been removed along with the ongoing investigation.
“Training on racist thoughts but also on antisemitism to ensure that students are working with the university to ensure that we have a united front against racism and hatred,” said undergraduate Student Government president Andrew Pierce II to WBNS.
“You know what does it truly mean to be a loving neighbor? And the fact that we’re still having to have these conversations shows that we’re not there yet but I’m ready to have the conversation.”
Students, staff, and campus visitors are encouraged to report discrimination, harassment, and hate speech to Ohio State’s Office of Institutional Equity.