Police in Salem, Massachusetts, are searching for the individual or individuals responsible for vandalizing the door of the Tabernacle Congregational Church and a nearby rainbow crosswalk with anti-LGBTQ graffiti. The police are also investigating reports of other defaced rainbow crosswalks and Pride flags in the city.
States Salem PD in a press release:
At approximately 3:30 [Wednesday] morning, the door of the Tabernacle Congregational Church at 50 Washington Street in Salem was defaced with anti-LGBTQ graffiti reading “Cancel LGBTQ 2024.” The Pride-themed crosswalk nearby was also defaced. Reports of vandalism to other
Pride-related crosswalks and flags throughout the City have also been received and are being
investigated. The Salem Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division is working to
identify the perpetrator or perpetrators and will work with the Essex County District Attorney’s
Office in order bring appropriate charges.
“So many have worked hard to make Salem a community where everyone can feel safe and
welcome,” said Mayor Dominick Pangallo. “This act of vandalism is contrary to who we are and
to our city’s values. I strongly condemn this act of hate and stand firmly with those members of
our community who identify as LGBTQIA+.”
Salem Police Chief Lucas Miller said, “We take any hate crime very seriously in Salem and my
department will work diligently to charge those responsible. Targeting the LGBTQ community
and defacing a church is unacceptable. I stand with Mayor Pangallo in condemning this crime
and I promise that finding and charging the perpetrator will be among our highest priorities.”
The Salem Police Department is attempting to identify the individual or individuals who
committed these malicious acts. If you witnessed these incidents or have any information on the
party or parties involved, you are requested to contact the Salem Police Criminal Investigation
Division at (978) 745-9700, Salem Police Dispatch at (978) 744-1212, or the anonymous tip line
at (978) 619-5627 – you do not need to give your name.
Not a subscriber? Sign up today for a free subscription to Boston Spirit magazine, New England’s premier LGBT magazine. We will send you a copy of Boston Spirit 6 times per year and we never sell/rent our subscriber information. Click HERE to sign up!
