Anti-Gay Vandalism Found In Adams Park In Wheaton: Reports

WHEATON, IL — Less than a month after Wheaton celebrated its first officials Pride week, anti-gay graffiti has been discovered in Adams Park. The homophobic phrases were found scrawled in marker on at least two locations in the park, according to a press release from OUTspoken Leaders.

"We are deeply discouraged at the discovery of such hateful graffiti," OUTspoken leaders wrote, "After a successful pride month, this is a massive blow to the LGBTQ+ community."

Photos of the homophobic phrases were initially shared on Facebook. The woman who posted the photos wrote that she used Lysol wipes. She wrote, "I thought I'd disinfect my house, but I guess I'll disinfect the hate."

In addition to the hate graffiti, OUTspoken leaders added that "heinous hate emails" have recently been circulated to businesses who are part of the pro-LGBTQ #WheatonProud "as scare tactics to get the businesses to take back their support of the LGBTQ+ community."

OUTspoken Leaders called on Wheaton officials to take action after the incident. OUTspoken Leaders wrote, "The city officials have been extraordinarily silent about this issue, especially considering that a few weeks ago they passed a pride proclamation."

OUTspoken Leaders wrote, "We hope that, going forward, Wheaton will continue the work already started towards becoming a place of love and acceptance rather than a place of hate."

Wheaton officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Patch Monday morning.