Vandals sprayed anti-LGBTQ+ language on a utility box in front of the building that houses Long Beach Pride, officials said on Sunday.
The language, along with a swastika and the acronym “MAGA,” was painted sometime Saturday at the corner of 10th Street and Obispo Avenue, according to Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson.
Long Beach Pride is a nonprofit organization that produces the annual Pride festival and parade.
Richardson said the vandalism “was not just an attack on a symbol, but an attack on our LGBTQ+ family, friends and neighbors,” adding, “This vile act of hate has absolutely no place in Long Beach.”
The city’s graffiti-removal team was dispatched to remove the vandalism and the Long Beach Police Department was investigating “to ensure those responsible will be held accountable,” Richardson said.
“This is deeply concerning,” Long Beach Pride interim president Elsa Martinez said. “Acts of hate are not something we expect to see in our own front yard, in a city like ours — one where we have fought for decades to be seen, accepted and embraced as equal members of this community.”
Pride is more than parades and celebrations, Martinez said. “It is about standing up for our right to live openly and fully, to share in all the privileges and freedoms that every American deserves. And we will continue to prevail.”
An LBPD representative was not immediately available to provide information about its investigation.
Allison Craig is a passionate sports writer and analyst with a deep love for game strategies, player performances, and the latest trends in the sports world. With years of experience covering football, basketball, tennis, and more, she delivers insightful analysis and engaging content for sports enthusiasts.
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