Arlington 'Black Lives Matter' Signs Vandalized With KKK Imagery

ARLINGTON, MA — Police are investigating four incidents of vandalism to "Black Lives Matter" signs in Arlington. The incidents were reported the morning of Monday, Aug. 10 and happened at the First Parish Unitarian Universalist of Arlington, Cavalry Church and two private homes in East Arlington, police said.

Two "Black Lives Matter" signs and one mural were destroyed at the Cavalry Church, and the "Black Lives Matter" banner at the First Parish Church was altered to read "ALL Lives Matter," police said. At one residence, a KKK sticker was affixed to a "Black Lives Matter" lawn sign, and the same sticker was stuck to a "Hate Has No Home Here" lawn sign at another home, police said.

The sticker depicted a Klansman wearing a white robe and mask on a horse with a torch.

"We are thoroughly investigating these incidents," Chief Juliann Flaherty said in a statement. "The hurtful messages far outweigh the physical damage done and underscore the work that needs to be done to make Arlington a truly supportive and welcoming town."

Police said a number of "Black Lives Matter" signs, including the banner at the high school, have been stolen, egged and vandalized over the past few weeks.

"The Arlington Human Rights Commission is appalled at this pattern of racist destruction, defacement, and vandalism," said Sharon Grossman and Kristen Bauer, Arlington Human Rights Commission co-chairs. "The Commission has formed a working group to explore responses and ways to support the community."

Police ask anyone with information to call the department at 781-643-1212 or report it via Tip411.