Mayor urges Indiana hate-crimes bill after swastikas, stickers appear

Courier Journal

New Albany's mayor called for Indiana to pass a hate-crime bill after multiple incidents in which Nazi-related graffiti and hate-speech stickers appeared around the city.

The New Albany Human Rights Commission addressed the issue Tuesday evening after reportedly "hundreds" of hate speech stickers were seen throughout the city over the last couple of months.

Mayor Jeff Gahan said police have seen much fewer than "hundreds."

"To date, two incidences have been reported to police dealing with approximately 8 stickers and those matters were investigated immediately," Gahan said.

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The mayor did, however, note that Indiana does not have a hate-crime bill and asked for state government to step up.

“I would encourage the State legislators of Indiana to pass a Hate Crime Bill similar to those passed in 45 other states in this country, which to date our State has chosen not to recognize," Gahan said.

The Indiana Senate voted on Tuesday evening to amend a hate-crimes proposal, scrapping from the bill all protected characteristics, including gender identity, race and sexual orientation, according to the Indy Star.

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In August 2018, authorities reported multiple cases of swastika-related vandalism on a New Albany-Floyd County school bus and in front of the Azalea Hills retirement community. Police did not investigate the incidents as a hate crime.

A sign outside of the Azelea Hills' Villas was vandalized with spray painted swastikas.

Despite the incidents, Gahan said racism is not a staple in the community.

"New Albany is a safe and welcoming community and hate messaging is not reflective of our values of inclusion, tolerance, and respect," Gahan said.

If someone sees hate speech or the stickers, they can report it to the New Albany Police at 812-944-6411.

Reach Thomas Novelly at 502-582-4465 or by email at tnovelly@courier-journal.com. Follow him on twitter @TomNovelly.