London Police are investigating after vandalized hateful messages appeared on a Fanshawe Park Road bridge.
The graffiti was reported to London Police around 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday night, after many drivers and pedestrians passed the messages.
Two messages were written on the walls of the bridge, and one was written on the sidewalk.
User Wayne deWho posted pictures of the graffiti on Reddit, and the public reaction has been a strong condemning. Over 200 commentors have voiced their concern regarding the messages.
This incident is also raising concerns due to its close proximity to the annual Take Back the Night event.
Executive Director of the London Abused Women’s Centre (LAWC) Jennifer Dunn saw the messages right after they were posted.
“It’s not a joke, it’s not something that should be taken lightly.” Dunn said when asked about the graffiti.
When asked about the connection to Take Back the Night, Dunn commented that incidents like these are exactly what the event is trying to prevent.
“That’s the whole point of Take Back the Night, to raise awareness through action, and show women and girls that they’re not alone, but also that this type of behavior is not okay.”
Dunn stated that measures have been put in place. London Police will be present at the event tonight, but a safety team, and a professional support team will also be on site courtesy of the LAWC.
The graffiti was power washed by city crews on Wednesday morning.
Take Back the Night kicks off in Victoria Park Thursday evening at 5:30 p.m. with heightened security and support.
