City leaders are condemning anti-semitic graffiti discovered Thursday on a railroad bridge between Oakley and Madisonville.
The Jewish Federation of Cincinnati says in a statement, "Such a large and brazen display of hatred in a heavily-traveled public place cannot be tolerated in our city. We will stand up to raise awareness that hate against one group is hate against all and to make it clear that we, along with our community, faith, and civic partners, will work together to combat it."
Mayor John Cranely called the graffiti "despicable."
"This despicable graffiti is unfortunately part of a disturbing trend worldwide, but we will not tolerate these acts in our community," the mayor says in a statement. "Cincinnati stands by our Jewish neighbors and will continue to fight against hate of all kinds."
City Manager Patrick Duhaney adds, "The city of Cincinnati prides itself on being an inclusive, welcoming place to people of all races, creeds, and backgrounds."
Councilman Greg Landsman says hate in any form will escalate unless it's addressed. "I think part of the issue is people feel emboldened to say or do whatever they want. I think it's important for us to make that hard and call it out when that happens."
Landsman is encouraging people to report any other graffiti they find. "It can become deadly, this kind of ideology. If people see anything else or hear anything or think that somebody might be involved they should let people know. We don't want anyone to get hurt."
