City Of Manhattan Beach: Condemn Anti-Semitic Hate Crimes At School Campuses

Press release from the City of Manhattan Beach:

02/19/2022 10:08 AM

Press Release: Manhattan Beach Unified School District and the City of Manhattan Beach Condemn Anti-Semitic Hate Crimes at School Campuses (PDF) 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACTS:

HIBAH SAMAD, MBUSD PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER hsamad@mbusd.org • (424) 236-9123
CHRISTOPHER INEGUEZ. MANHATTAN BEACH POLICE DEPARTMENT PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER cineguez@manhattanbeach.gov • (310) 802-5184
JESSICA VINCENT, COMMUNICATIONS AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT MANAGER jvincent@manhattanbeach.gov • (310) 802-5405

MANHATTAN BEACH UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT AND THE CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH CONDEMN ANTI-SEMITIC HATE CRIMES AT SCHOOL CAMPUSES

MANHATTAN BEACH UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT AND THE CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH CONDEMN ANTI-SEMITIC HATE CRIMES AT SCHOOL CAMPUSES

Manhattan Beach, CA (February 18) – In response to recent anti-Semitic vandalism, the Manhattan Beach Unified School District (MBUSD) and City of Manhattan Beach jointly condemn acts of hate on MBUSD campuses.

Manhattan Beach, CA (February 18)

School staff found swastikas drawn in Mira Costa High School restrooms during recent frequent routine checks and one at an elementary school playground.

These incidents of hate crimes are under active investigation by the Manhattan Beach Police Department (MBPD). MBUSD and MBPD are working closely to ensure school campuses are safe learning environments, and that students and staff on campus feel secure and supported.

“These hate incidents are disgusting and will not be tolerated. The school district has reacted quickly but we know we still have far to go. Parents in our community, as well as grandparents, neighbors, and trusted leaders must all work together and some of that work is already underway. While these symbols of hate can be removed from our campuses, the lasting impact on our community cannot,” said Manhattan Beach Unified Board of Trustees President Sally Peel.

“I am deeply troubled to see these vile incidents of hate continuing in our community, especially on our school campuses,” said Mayor Hildy Stern. “We must stand with our students, our families, the school district, and the Jewish community in condemning these horrifying acts. Now more than ever, we must remain united to support the important work of the school district in its efforts to assure that our students have a safe, supportive learning environment. I will assure you that the City does all that it can to support the District's efforts. Together we will stand united against any form of hate to make our schools and our city a safe place for all.”

At MBUSD, there has been a long-time focus on creating a culture of care at schools to ensure that every campus has an inclusive and supportive environment for students and their families. Hate will not be tolerated, ever. Educating each other about our differences is key to building a stronger community and eliminating prejudice.

“The well-being of our students and staff is tremendously important to MBUSD. We want to ensure that our school campuses are places where everyone is safe, respected, and supported. There is no room for any type of hate at MBUSD. We will continue to work with the City and community partners to make sure anyone who has taken part in these hate crimes is held accountable,” said Manhattan Beach Unified Superintendent Dr. John Bowes.

MBUSD and MBPD have always had a firm stance against crimes targeting individuals, including those based on gender, race, religion, or sexual orientation.

“We strive to protect the rights of all individuals against such acts or threats of violence, property damage, harassment, intimidation, or other crimes motivated by hate or bias,” said Manhattan Beach Police Department representatives. “Our department is working diligently to identify the hate crime perpetrators. Offenders may face criminal charges for vandalism or acts of hate. We urge parents to speak with their students and ask anyone with information to contact the Manhattan Beach Police Department and any school administrator.”

To report an act or incident of hate, please call MBPD’s anonymous tip line at (310) 802-5171. Victims of hate incidents can also seek support through LA vs. Hate. This program includes a network of community agencies that provide prevention, advocacy, and support to victims of incidents of hate. To report hate, please call 211.

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This press release was produced by the City of Manhattan Beach. The views expressed here are the author’s own.