The Philadelphia chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Philadelphia), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned antisemitic and anti-Black vandalism at Glenside’s Weldon playground and urged community members to attend an upcoming public gathering against hate.
Swastikas and anti-Black racist language were reportedly spray-painted throughout the playground. Abington Township Police are investigating the incident.
In a statement, CAIR-Philadelphia Executive Director Ahmet Tekelioglu said:
“We stand in solidarity with our Jewish and Black neighbors. Every child deserves to play in safety, and every family deserves to feel welcome in our public spaces. These hateful symbols and slurs threaten that shared promise. We welcome the investigation and urge our Muslim community and neighbors of every background to join together in rejecting antisemitism, anti-Black racism, and all forms of bigotry.”
CAIR-Philadelphia encourages residents to join Abington United, organized by Abington Township and Abington School District, on Thursday, October 8, from 5:30–6:30 p.m. at Glenside Weldon Park, at the corner of Easton Road and Parkdale Avenue, to stand in solidarity with those targeted.
CAIR-Philadelphia urges anyone with information regarding this or other bias-motivated incidents to contact local police.
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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CONTACT: Ahmet Tekelioglu, CAIR-Philadelphia Executive Director, 617-401-5397, [email protected].