The University of Nevada is investigating after a swastika was found spray painted inside Wolf Pack Tower at the Circus Circus.
UNR's assistant director of residential life says the swastika was found on August 23rd.
UNR says while University Police Services "are not 100 percent sure that the swastika was not already in the stairwell before our transition of the building into student housing, University Residential Life and Housing enacted all protocols because of the University’s commitment to inclusion and diversity."
University Police Services says "there is no video footage available in the area where the swastika was found." It is working with a security firm to review video footage around the affected area.
Once pertinent evidence was collected, the vandalism was repaired by facilities staff.
The University says, "Going forward, the staff within the Department of Residential Life, in conjunction with various partners, will provide educational opportunities around the areas of diversity, social justice and inclusion. One of our best ways to combat incidents of hate and bigotry is through education. We encourage you all to attend, and offer suggestions for additional events that you think would be beneficial. Additionally, we will continue to make every effort to monitor and confront statements and acts of discrimination."
The Wolf Pack Tower opened at Circus Circus so repairs can be made at Argenta and Nye Halls after this summer's boiler explosion.
Here is the letter that was sent to students:
Last night one of our residence halls, Wolf Pack Tower, was subject to an act of vandalism, inspired by ignorance and hate, where someone painted a swastika in the stairwell. The swastika represents Nazi’s and other current hate groups who encourage discrimination and violence against many underrepresented populations and has no place in our campus communities. This and other acts of hate and discrimination not only create an environment of hostility, but are a violation of university policy.
University Police were called and have begun an investigation. They are currently working with the Row security firm to review video footage around the affected area. Once photographs and other evidence had been collected, the vandalism was repaired by facilities staff.
Going forward, the staff within the Department of Residential Life, in conjunction with various partners, will provide educational opportunities around the areas of diversity, social justice and inclusion. One of our best ways to combat incidents of hate and bigotry is through education. We encourage you all to attend, and offer suggestions for additional events that you think would be beneficial.
Additionally, we will continue to make every effort to monitor and confront statements and acts of discrimination.
But most importantly, we need your help both as individuals and as a community. We ask that you all come together and hold each other accountable. If you or someone close to you is subject to any form of discrimination, please reach out to a student staff member or your Resident Directors for additional support. You may also report through the Title IX office in the Continuing Education building or through their website.
Lastly, please take advantage of the leadership available to you. The Residence Hall Association (RHA) will be working in conjunction with ASUN to provide a response of support in reaction to this event and are constantly evaluating ways in which they can advocate for all students. Please take the opportunity to let them hear your concerns and how you would like your elected advocates to respond on your behalf.
Toby L. Toland
Assistant Director for Residential Life
He/Him/His
(University of Nevada contributed to this report.)
