Penn State leaders are now condemning the recent anti-Semitic vandalism spree that targeted a fraternity whose members are largely Jewish.
A statement released by the university, says in part, “The recent hateful and offensive anti-Semitic vandalism directed toward Beta Sigma Beta fraternity is unacceptable in our community and should be unacceptable anywhere. Hateful behavior that feeds anxiety and division among us simply must not stand.”
The statement is signed by university president Rodney Erickson, provost Nick Jones, vice president for student affairs Damon Sims and vice provost for educational equity Terrell Jones.
The vandalism happened Thursday night in the area near the Beta Sigma Beta fraternity, 255 E. Fairmount Ave. and neighboring Delta Sigma Phi, 508 Locust Lane.
Police say somebody spray painted slogans, swastikas, and sexual comments on a dozen cars. A garage and a dumpster were also defaced.
Investigators say many of the derogatory remarks “were targeted towards the Beta Sigma Beta fraternity.”
The university statement says members of Beta Sigma Beta and other members of the Jewish community require support.
It points out that Beta Sigma Beta started as the Alpha Chapter of Beta Samach, a Jewish fraternity founded by four students more than 100 years ago at Cornell after they were denied fraternity membership because of their religion.
The statement says much has changed in the past century, however, “misunderstanding and ignorance remain, and when those twin characteristics are left unattended, they breed among us hate and its accompanying behavior. Those are outcomes we all must stand against.” Click HERE to read the entire statement which has been posted as a Letter to the Editor.
The State College Police Department is offering up to a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
If you have any information about this incident you’re asked to call State College police at 814-234-7150. You can also submit an anonymous tip by clicking HERE.
Popular Stories:
Man Arrested for Public Drunkenness Allegedly Leads Police on Car Chas
Penn State Cracks Top 10 in International Student Enrollment
Penn State Football: Kline To Miss Remainder Of Season, Robinson Shoulder Injury Not Serious
