Full Notification

PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release November 15, 2016 ALBION TAKES STAND AGAINST HATEFUL VANDALISM Albion, MI – Albion Public Safety responded to a report of vandalism painted on several downtown buildings, including two Swastika symbols that were spray painted on the window of an empty store front in the 200 block of South Superior Street. The vandalism is under investigation. Council Member Beckie Decker was appalled by this act of ethnic intimidation, stating that “Albion is a community that values everyone and this cannot be tolerated.” Mayor Joe Domingo indicated that “every effort will be made to identify the vandals and see that they are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” According to City Manager Sheryl Mitchell, “The City of Albion is a very diverse community. Ethnic and racial intimidation has no place in Albion. In fact, a Diversity Committee, started by Harry Bonner and Richard Lindsey, was recently formed to work in partnership with Starr Commonwealth to host conversations and programs that address racism and forge respectful relationships. The goal is to promote the oneness of humankind in Albion and Marshall. We, recognize that biases exist, yet we remain adamant that we will not stand by silently when acts of hatred occur.” Albion College President Mauri Ditzler commented, “Albion College wholeheartedly resents and rejects the expressions of hatred that were made through the vandalism of storefront windows and other sites on Superior Street. We are confident that the overwhelming majority of Albion residents join us on campus in condemning this criminal act, and we are also confident that Albion Public Safety is working diligently to determine who is responsible. The College's Office of Campus Safety is also increasing its patrols of campus.” The City of Albion requests that anyone having information related to these incidents are requested to contact: Silent Observer at 517.629.2700 or Detective Wygant at 517.629.7824.