Hateful Words, Symbols, Found In Northport High School Bathroom

NORTHPORT, NY — Hateful words and symbols, including swastikas and racial and homophobic slurs, were found in a Northport High School boys bathroom stall, the superintendent wrote in a letter to the community.

The school district contacted Suffolk police, and the district plans to help the police's hate crimes unit investigate. School custodians removed the symbols and words.

One swastika was found on Thursday, while a second was found in the same bathroom on Friday, police said.

The person responsible is subject to criminal charges, Superintendent Robert Banzer said.

"Sadly, this is now the second time this school year that I am writing to you with disturbing news
of this nature," Banzer wrote. "These words and symbols of intolerance and hate are completely unacceptable. This district is committed to making all students feel safe, supported and welcome in our buildings, and these despicable acts do not represent that mission."

A swastika was etched into a slide on a playground at Ocean Avenue Elementary School in August, Newsday reported.

Principal Rob Dennis was slated to address the Northport High School staff and students virtually to discuss the incidents and remind students of the repercussions of hate symbols and speech, according to Banzer.

An advisory committee composed of district staff, parents and community residents is being formed to deepen the district's understanding of dignity, belonging and inclusion for all throughout the school community.

"We realize that addressing the serious issues of racism, antisemitism, homophobia and all forms of hate requires an ongoing effort from both the district and our community," Banzer wrote. "We are committed to putting in this effort, and I hope to no longer need to send messages such as this in the future."