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Hateful symbols and slurs found in Northport High School bathroom

Schools

by Chrissy Ruggeri | Fri, Oct 8 2021

Hateful words and symbols, including a swastika and racial and homophobic slurs, were found in a bathroom stall at Northport High School last night.

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This afternoon, Superintendent Robert Banzer informed district parents and residents of an incident that occurred last night at Northport High School. According to Mr. Banzer, “several hateful words and symbols, including a swastika and racial and homophobic slurs, were found in a bathroom stall.” The Suffolk County Police Hate Crimes Unit was contacted by the district and are investigating the incident.

This latest act is one in a string of recent occurrences within the Northport-East Northport community, including protests last week on Ocean Avenue, where swastikas were displayed on signs by demonstrators. Members of the East Northport Jewish Center also reported last month being harassed by a man while performing a religious ritual in Northport Village Park, and earlier in the month a swastika was found etched into a slide at the Ocean Avenue School playground.

“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,” Mr. Banzer wrote in his letter.

Today, Northport High School Principal Rob Dennis addressed the entire school staff and study body in a virtual assembly. He discussed the hateful incidents and reminded students of the very serious repercussions of such behavior. The principal's address occurred on the same day pride ribbons were passed out to students and staff for a scheduled celebration of National Coming Out Day. Teachers and students wore the ribbons, as well as pride shirts and masks, in support of the LGBTQ community.

To address the importance of acceptance and inclusivity in our schools, Mr. Banzer explained that Mr. Dennis will be forming a committee of student leaders who will work together on this mission. The Board of Education also announced their plan to work with a “dignity and belonging consultant,” and form another committee that’s composed of district staff and community residents to “deepen our collective understanding of dignity, belonging and inclusion for all throughout our school community.”

Stay tuned to www.northportjournal.com for updates to this story.

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