Authorities investigating anti-Semitic graffiti at Minneapolis school

Authorities are investigating after anti-Semitic graffiti was spray-painted on a school in southwest Minneapolis.

The vandalism occurred at Lake Harriet Community School’s Upper Campus on Vincent Avenue South. Photos posted online showed a swastika spray-painted on a door to the school along with a threat using an anti-Semitic slur.

Police said it happened sometime between Sunday and Thursday morning, but did not release further information.

"In the strongest terms, Minneapolis Public Schools condemns the anti-Semitic attack on our schools and community," Superintendent Ed Graff said in a statement Thursday. Graff said the school district is working with the Minneapolis Police Department to find out who painted the graffiti.

"Our schools should be safe, respectful and welcoming places for all of our students, families and community members. And we stand united against hatred in all its forms," said Graff.

The Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas said it has been in contact with school and law enforcement officials regarding the incident, and appreciated "their swift response to this disturbing incident."

"This is the 17th anti-Semitic incident reported to the JCRC in 2019," the council said in a news release. "Perpetrators of these types of incidents are intent on spreading a message of hate and challenging the openness and respectful atmosphere of our community. Collectively, we must reject these chilling acts and the hate they represent."

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.