Racist Graffiti at UC San Diego Prompts Statement From Chancellors

LA JOLLA, CA: A statement was issued Monday by administrators at University of California, San Diego, about racist graffiti discovered Friday on the campus.

"A series of incidents occurring on college and university campuses across the United States have reflected our nation’s current divisive political climate. Unfortunately, late Friday evening graffiti promoting the deportation of undocumented immigrants and the construction of a wall on the border of Mexico was discovered chalked on UC San Diego’s campus sidewalks. This graffiti runs counter to our campus values of equity and inclusion. We value diversity and respect for all cultures.

"UC San Diego is steadfast in the commitment to our Principles of Community which reflect a collective dedication to a campus where we uphold each individual’s right to dignity, justice and respect. We affirm the Principles of Community as the guide for all campus citizens as we move forward to foster the best working and learning environment."

The statement was signed: UC San Diego Chancellor, Executive Vice Chancellor and the Vice Chancellors.

The chalked messages, which reportedly included, "build the wall," "deport them all," "f--- Mexicans," "Mexico will pay," and "make America great again," have spawned outcry from many members of the school community.

Kevan Aguilar, a graduate diversity officer, in a Facebook post called the graffiti an attack against the Latin American community on campus at UCSD.

"These racist attacks came the night before Triton Day, when admitted Latinx students and their family members will be visiting the campus," Aguilar wrote.

It is alleged that four or five white men wearing hooded clothing were seen about 10 p.m. Friday writing the messages.

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— Photo via Wikimedia Commons