Racist slurs and a swastika were found scrawled on the back of Lilja Elementary School in Natick over the weekend, rattling families and educators in the community. Town crews quickly removed the markings after they were reported, and the Natick Police Department opened an investigation. Parents said the location - on a rear section of the building near a playground - made the discovery especially upsetting for children and caregivers.
According to WHDH, a parent contacted school staff around 11:45 a.m. Sunday after seeing several racist slurs and a swastika on the back of the building. Police said the area is generally away from public view, but a playground sits nearby. Jessie Perry, a Lilja parent, told reporters she appreciated the school's fast response and said her family, who are Jewish, will talk with their children about what happened. “It’s always disappointing to hear about it,” Perry said.
In a joint letter, the Town of Natick, the Natick Police Department and Natick Public Schools said they "unequivocally condemn this act" and pledged to identify those responsible, the MetroWest Daily News reported. The statement said that "Antisemitism, racism and hate have no place in Natick" and stressed the town's commitment to education and community partnerships while investigators work the case.
A Troubling Pattern Of Hate Incidents
Local reporting shows this episode is part of a string of hate vandalism in Natick in recent years. Officials removed swastikas from signs on the Cochituate Rail Trail last August, as Patch reported, and a painted swastika near the West Natick commuter rail station in April 2023 led to a community rally, according to WCVB. Those earlier incidents prompted town leaders to coordinate with faith groups and to assign civil rights investigators in prior cases, reflecting an ongoing concern among residents.
Police Investigation And Cleanup
Natick police said the graffiti has been removed and that there are no suspects at this time. The department is investigating the incident and asked anyone with information to come forward, officials told WHDH. The town's Department of Public Works and school custodial staff documented the vandalism and cleaned the site while investigators canvass the area for leads.
How Families And The District Are Responding
District and town leaders said they will continue educational programs and community dialogues to confront bias while the investigation moves forward, the MetroWest Daily News reported. Parents and local faith leaders have urged residents to share any tips with police and to support outreach efforts aimed at preventing future incidents.
