Photo Courtesy of Councilwoman Koslowitz’s Office
The anti-Semitic graffiti was scrawled all over the PS 139 playground.
By Michael V. Cusenza
Anti-Semitic phrases and symbols, including swastikas and “Hail Hitler,” were discovered at a Rego Park schoolyard on Friday.
The City Police Department is currently investigating the incident at PS 139, and Gov. Andrew Cuomo has directed the State Police Hate Crimes Task Force to assist with the probe. The NYPD is offering up to $2,500 for information regarding the hate crime.
“Let me be very clear: In New York, we have zero tolerance for anti-Semitism and hate of any kind, and no student should ever feel discriminated against or threatened because of their religion or ethnic origin,” Cuomo said. “New York is a beacon of tolerance and hope, and we will do everything in our power to make sure the perpetrators of these vile acts are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
Congresswoman Grace Meng (D-Flushing) echoed the governor’s sentiments and denounced the vandalism.
“I am outraged and sickened that hate has reared its ugly head in our community. The drawings found in the playground of PS 139 are disgusting and unacceptable and everybody throughout this diverse and welcoming borough must condemn these anti-Semitic images,” she said. “There is no place for hate in Queens or anywhere in our society and these acts will not be tolerated. I thank the hardworking detectives of the NYPD who are investigating and I hope the perpetrators are found and swiftly brought to justice.”
City Councilwoman Karen Koslowitz (D-Forest Hills) posted pictures of the incident on social media.
“I am horrified, disgusted, and nauseated, to say the least, of what I have witnessed today,” she posted on Twitter.
