The mayor said “hate has no home” in Highland Park after a swastika was found on a playground slide at a public park as Jewish families move from the High Holy Days into preparations for Sukkot.
Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering said in a statement that an act of antisemitism was reported in the community which has “once again shaken many of us.”
Rotering said the city condemns the incident in the “strongest terms.”
The Highland Park Police Department responded to the antisemitic vandalism incident on Tuesday afternoon at Devonshire Park, 1060 Devonshire Court.
Officers learned that a community member discovered a playground slide had been defaced with a swastika.
Park District of Highland Park personnel responded immediately to remove the graffiti.
The police department is continuing to work with the Park District to investigate the incident.
Police have since instituted a close watch on parks and houses of worship.
“This incident comes at a particularly meaningful time for our Jewish community, as families move from the solemn reflection of the High Holy Days into the joyful preparations for Sukkot,” Rotering said.
“It is deeply painful that, during a time centered on reflection, unity and renewal, an act of hate has found its way into our community,” she said.
The mayor said antisemitism is rising, “not only across the world, but here at home.”
“That reality is painful, and for so many, it is deeply personal. Even in a community that strives to lead with compassion and inclusion, hate can find its way to our doorstep. When it does, we must respond by standing together and reaffirming who we are and the values we share,” Rotering said.
The mayor said the city recognizes that incidents like these can bring “fear, hurt and anger, particularly for those who feel targeted or vulnerable.”
“To anyone who is afraid or feels threatened, please know that you are not alone. Your community stands with you. We will not be intimidated, and we will not be silent,” Rotering said.
The City of Highland Park and the Park District of Highland Park said in a statement that public safety is a top priority and that they take incidents such as these seriously.
“… unequivocally condemn all acts of antisemitism and stand in solidarity with our Jewish community. Antisemitic acts of hate have no place in Highland Park or anywhere. As community leaders, it is vital to reiterate our unflinching support for our Jewish neighbors, as well as our commitment to taking every step to protect public safety,” the city and park district said.
The city, park district and other partners serving Highland Park work together throughout the year to share information and take proactive public safety measures, including joint training exercises and regular communication between staff.
“The City’s quarterly meetings with Highland Park clergy are an important forum for two-way dialogue for government leaders to understand the concerns facing our religious communities and to build a strong foundation for collaboration and trust during incidents such as this,” officials said.
No arrests or charges have been announced yet.