Antisemetic, anti-trans and white supremacist propaganda have appeared at multiple locations around UB’s North Campus in recent weeks.
Stickers, posters and drawings on campus signs and lamp posts displayed messages such as “white unity” and “the way to victory: white solidarity.” The stickers promote the National Justice Party, which the Anti-Defamation League describes as “a virulently antisemitic white supremacist group.”
Rabbi Sara Rich of Hillel Buffalo — an on-campus Jewish organization — says she has seen several of these hateful antisemitic postings throughout campus. She says that while the stickers are likely posted by people outside the UB community, other recent incidents, such as swastikas drawn on chalkboards in the Student Union, are more likely to have been created by students.
“I am disappointed to see yet another instance of cruel and dangerous ideas being promoted on campus,” Rich said in an email to The Spectrum. “Hillel is here to support students who are upset about these incidents. We stand ready to work with the campus community to promote constructive dialogue that builds relationships and leads to tolerance and understanding.”
In a statement, UB spokesperson John Della Contrada denounced the stickers, as well as anti-trans posters that have appeared on campus.
“Unfortunately, the university periodically has to deal with this public display of hateful rhetoric and we in no uncertain terms denounce it — every time,” Della Contrada said. “Based on past experience, these postings are often the act of someone from outside the UB community. They were certainly not sanctioned by any recognized group at the university.”
These hateful messages aren’t the first to be seen on North Campus. UPD investigated a number of antisemitic and racist posters found on campus over the Hanukkah holiday in fall 2021.
In 2019, the New York State Police Hate Crimes Task force investigated racist, antisemitic and homophobic symbols and slurs found on a Knox Hall bathroom stall.
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