Statement from UMass Amherst Regarding Act of Hate

On Wednesday afternoon, Oct. 30, several swastikas were found drawn in chalk on the walls of the Fine Arts Center at UMass Amherst. This act of hate is an affront to the university’s values. We reject this hateful act and remain firm in our commitment to building a more inclusive, equitable community that embraces the dignity of all.

Upon the discovery of the swastikas, the UMass Police were notified and the swastikas were removed by campus facilities staff, key steps in a response protocol, which includes meetings with those directly affected, deployment of support services, and communication to members of the impacted academic or residential community.

We are confident that our community’s rebuke of these hateful acts will strengthen the resolve of every member of the UMass community to stand together and reject hatred in all its forms.