Abington Reacting To Racist Graffiti With Rally

ABINGTON TOWNSHIP, PA — Following racist graffiti found at a township playground over the weekend, a community rally will be held on Thursday to choose unity and reject hate.

The Abington Township Police Department is investigating antisemitic and anti-Black offensive remarks and spray-painted graffiti found at the Glenside Weldon playground.

See the flyer below about the community event

"I was deeply saddened to see hateful graffiti defacing the Glenside Weldon playground," Commissioners Vice President Matt Vahey. "These messages, and those responsible for them, do not reflect the values of Glenside or the broader Abington community."

The township and school district will come together for "Abington United" at 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday at the corner of Easton and Parkdale roads at Glenside Weldon Park.

"Come stand with us. Reclaim this space. Choose unity. Reject hate," organizers said.

"We are a community built on respect, inclusion, and love for our neighbors," Vahey said.

He said that just a few years ago, Glenside residents came together to raise funds to purchase new equipment and rebuild the playground so that children would have a welcoming and safe place to play.

"That collective effort reflected the very best of who we are," the commissioner said. "We cannot allow an act of hate to define this space or our community. Let the spirit of unity, generosity, and mutual respect that rebuilt this playground prevail over this unacceptable display of hate."

Police are asking anyone who may have information regarding the incident or those responsible to contact the Abington Township Police Department at 267-536-1100.