 |
Anti-Semitic graffiti slogans were found spray-painted in a southeast neighbourhood, the second such act of hateful vandalism this week.
The actions of vandals in the Sundance area, including Sundance elementary and MidSun school, come on the heels of similar disturbing phrases spray-painted on a southwest Holocaust war memorial and synagogues.
Police said the new attack was not focused against the Jewish community but there were slogans referring to "killing" and symbols such as swastikas, similar to offensive marks left last Saturday on properties belonging to the Jewish community.
Investigators said between 5:30 p.m. Tuesday and 7 a.m. Wednesday several symbols and phrases were painted on multiple locations.
Investigators said they don't believe this is connected to Saturday night's vandalism.
Calgary police spokesman Kevin Brookwell declined to repeat the anti-Semitic phrases found, but he said some of the words were spelled wrong and some symbols were drawn backwards.
"They were wishing harm upon the Jewish community and I won't go to exactly what was said because it's inappropriate and disturbing," said Brookwell.
Within an hour after the hateful and offensive remarks, which also included phrases such as "School Sucks" and "Down with Institutions," were discovered by bylaw officers, the graffiti was removed.
Investigators have recovered a can of spray paint and will be sending it away for testing.
Ald. John Mar said he wants the Calgary police and the police commission, of which he's a member, to issue a strong statement followed by a direct action "condemning this type of villainy."
"Calgary is an open, progressive and inclusive society ... that rejects the values of hate and violence espoused by these thugs," said Mar.
Judy Shapiro with the Calgary Jewish Community Council said it's upsetting the attack was repeated.
"It's horrifying that there's more," she said. "It's an affront to all Calgarians."
To denounce such hateful attacks and promote equality, the Jewish community and other cultural organizations in the city are holding a rally on Nov. 26 at 5:30 p.m. at the Boyce Theatre at Stampede Park.
Anyone with information about this crime is asked to call District 8 at 403-567-6800 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
RENATO.GANDIA@SUNMEDIA.CA