Part of a display left after a Purdue Anti-Racism Coalition demonstration has been defaced according to university police. The incident is being investigated as a possible hate crime.
Detectives say a sign left by some candles in front of Hovde Hall after the Coalition’s demonstration Monday had a racial slur written on it. A picture of a body hanging from a tree also was drawn on the sign.
They believe the incident happened around 9:15 a.m. Tuesday. Anyone with information should contact the Purdue Police at 765-494-8221 or its anonymous tip line at 765-496-3784.
The office of the dean of students is investigating the case as a violation of the student conduct code.
Purdue President Mitch Daniels is denouncing the incident:
"Bigotry and hate are neither welcomed nor tolerated at Purdue University. We welcome those who speak freely, in the open, and with respect for each individual. Without free discourse, we cannot fulfill our mission. There is no place at Purdue for those who act from hatred. If you recognize yourself in this last sentence, you are not welcome at Purdue."
