Velázquez on Hate Graffiti at LES Synagogue, UWS Church

Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement regarding racist graffiti that was found at Beth Hachasidim DePolen Synagogue and on an Upper West Side Methodist church:

"Acts of hate have no place anywhere in our society and we must always be unified in condemning them. Given recent national events it is more important than ever that we stand united in sending a clear message that there is no room for hate in our City. I urge the New York Police Department to swiftly investigate these appalling crimes.

"It is precisely because of acts like these that I authored the ‘Hate Crimes Victim Assistance Act,' legislation that would authorize an additional $50 million in federal funds to help prevent, track and prosecute hate crimes and assist victims. I will continue working at the federal level on legislation to combat bigotry wherever it rears its ugly head."

###