Madison Alders Condemn Racist Act in Southwest Neighborhoods

Vigil Scheduled for Tuesday, November 22

Today, Alders Lisa Subeck, Steve King, and Matt Phair, together with the Madison Police Department, condemned the actions of those responsible for racist graffiti that surfaced near and around Falk Elementary School on Madison's southwest side last week. Multiple instances of graffiti including swastikas and the words "White Power" were spray painted on fences and other surfaces in the area. Whether this vicious behavior was done in a coordinated fashion or was the act of one individual, it will not be tolerated and will not divide residents of Southwest Madison. In fact, neighbors have already come together to quickly remove the graffiti and condemn the action. Led by the Southwest Community Organizing Committee (SWCOC), residents from various neighborhoods, cultural backgrounds and socioeconomic groups have responded by organizing a community vigil to stand together against this act of racism. The vigil will be held on Tuesday, November 22nd at 4:30 pm at Hammersley Park. Alders Subeck, King, and Phair, together with the Madison Police Department, fully support this community response and encourage citizens to attend. "This type of hateful behavior simply won't be tolerated in our neighborhood or anywhere in this city," said District 20 Alder Matt Phair. "However, we are impressed by the strong response of so many residents on the southwest side. This shows that residents of Southwest Madison really care about improving their neighborhood and that organizing efforts over the last few years are paying off. As city leaders, we fully support their work." "We have full confidence that our police department is doing all it can to solve this crime and prevent it from happening again," added District 7 Alder Steve King. "Their swift response demonstrates that the City of Madison will not tolerate crimes of hate in our community." District 1 Alder Lisa Subeck concluded, "We encourage residents to join their neighbors at a candlelight vigil being held on Tuesday. Let's stand together against racism and send a clear message to those responsible that the southwest side will not be divided by their actions. Vigil Details Tuesday, November 22 4:30 - 5:00 Ceremony at Hammersley Park 5:00 - 5:15 Walk from Hammersley Park on the route indicated to Falk School 5:15 - 7:00 Discussions, Socializing and Snacks in the Falk School Gym