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Racist slurs, symbols found in Knox Hall at University at Buffalo

A UB spokesperson says a racist slur against African-Americans, a homophobic slur and two swastikas where written in red marker on a bathroom stall.

BUFFALO, N.Y. — Racist slurs and symbols were found Friday on the University at Buffalo North Campus, where officials believe it to be "a random act."

UB spokesperson John DellaContrada said that a racist slur against African-Americans, a homophobic slur and two swastikas where written in red marker on a bathroom stall in Knox Hall.

DellaContrada added that campus police are unsure about exactly when the racist graffiti was posted.

The school issued a statement on Friday:

University Police are investigating an incident of hateful graffiti found in a bathroom stall on the university’s North Campus. They believe the incident to be a random act and say the incident is a rare occurrence at UB. 

Immediately after it was reported, a university facilities crew removed the graffiti. Anyone with any information about the incident is asked to contact University Police at 716-645-2227 or ub-police@buffalo.edu.

Racist and discriminatory behaviors and conduct have no place at the University at Buffalo and will not be tolerated. Whenever acts motivated by hatred or discrimination occur, the university will respond promptly to protect the safety and well-being of the entire university community.

Diversity, inclusion and mutual respect are strongly held values of our university. We are committed to upholding these values at all times.

UB President Satish K. Tripathi also released a statement, saying in part: "I want to state in the most unambiguous terms, racism and hatred will not be tolerated in our university. Acts spurred by bigotry, racism and hatred will always be responded to swiftly at UB to protect the safety and well-being of our entire university community."

Governor Andrew Cuomo responded through a statement on Friday evening, pledging support by "directing the New York State Police Hate Crimes Task Force to offer assistance to the University at Buffalo Police as they investigate anti-Semitic and homophobic slurs found on campus."

Cuomo added: "In New York, there is no place for hate, and we will continue to rise up and condemn every cowardly act, anywhere it appears that targets and threatens people because of their race, religion or sexual orientation."

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