Highland Park, IL – Police are investigating after a swastika and other antisemitic vandalism was found in Highland Park as city officials said that “acts of hate and bigotry” are not tolerated in the city.
The Highland Park Police Department was notified of the vandalism Friday morning in the Hybernia neighborhood.
The city said that “acts of hate and bigotry are not tolerated” in Highland Park and the police department will be implementing additional patrols throughout the city.
A Highland Park resident said she came upon the vandalism while walking along a path near her home.
A swastika and the word “Jew” along with other depictions were left on a garbage can in painter’s tape.
The can is used to store food for the swans in the neighborhood.
The City of Highland Park said they condemn “any racist, misogynistic, antisemitic, anti-LGBTQ+, ableist, or otherwise hate-motived groups or individuals who are threatening any form of violent acts, bigoted harassment on, or discrimination against our residents, visitors, or city staff.”
“This behavior is never acceptable, but it is particularly outrageous that any groups would further an agenda of hate and fear,” the city said in a statement.
The city also said they will take every possible action to ensure that residents, workers and visitors will not face discrimination or harassment.
“Violent threats have no place in our country, state, or city, and will not be tolerated. Reports of such hate crimes are of great concern. The Police Department will continue to work closely with partner agencies to ensure the continued safety of our community,” the city said in the statement.
Anyone with information is asked to call the police department’s non-emergency line at 847-432-7730.
“It is vitally important that our community holds to our values and stands together in denouncing all acts of bigotry and violence. Hate has no home in Highland Park or anywhere,” the city said.