At a Glance
- Roxborough High School vandalized overnight with racist graffiti.
- Officials are coordinating a clean-up before Monday classes.
- Police and the school district are investigating the incident.
- Why it matters: The attack threatens student safety and community cohesion.
Late Sunday night, spray paint marked Roxborough High School with crude swastikas and a misspelled racial slur. The incident prompted a swift cleanup effort and a call from city and state officials for unity.
Vandalism and Immediate Response
The graffiti appeared on the 6400 block of Ridge Avenue, targeting the school’s entrance. Principal Kristin Williams Smalley condemned the act and confirmed that the Philadelphia Police Department and the School District of Philadelphia’s Office of School Safety are investigating.
Smalley also noted that the school community has written messages of love, inclusion, and belonging on the sidewalks and will welcome students back in the morning.
Official Statements
City Councilmember Curtis Jones Jr. and State Rep. Tarik Khan both condemned the vandalism, emphasizing that hate has no place in the community.
Curtis Jones Jr. stated:
> “Hate has no home in Roxborough or anywhere for that matter. As a PA Human Relations Commissioner, I am tasked with enforcing state laws against various kinds of discrimination so it is especially hurtful when hateful vandalism like what occurred overnight at Roxborough High School occurs in the 4th district especially at a place of learning. As we approach MLK’s birthday, let’s remember what he said ‘Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.'”
Tarik Khan said:
> “Late last night, someone painted racist graffiti, including swastikas, at Roxborough High School. Let me be clear: targeting students in the middle of the night is cowardice, and it does not define the community. Our community is bigger than a racist, and one who cannot even spell at that. Our students are bigger. And the neighbors, parents, and educators who show up for Roxborough High help make our community even more special. Every student deserves to feel safe and respected when they walk into school, not have to deal with hate meant to scare and intimidate them.”
Key Takeaways
- Vandalism targeted Roxborough High with racist symbols and slurs.
- Police and the school district are investigating; cleanup underway.
- City and state officials call for unity and emphasize that hate has no place in the community.
With classes set to resume Monday, the school and local leaders are working to restore a safe environment and reaffirm their commitment to inclusion.
