Community leaders voiced a message of unity against hate Thursday. This after recent acts of vandalism targeting people of color in Eugene.
The latest example was graffiti on a mural outside Community Alliance of Lane County, or CALC in Eugene. Samantha Alcantar was part of a youth group that created the mural, called "The People’s Resistance", dedicated in 2016. She said it’s sickening to see this act of hate.
“This mural helped share part of our reality, our legacy, and our struggle that defines us,” Alcantar said. “All I have left is hope. Hope that people responsible are held accountable for their actions because this is not the first act of vandalism or hate. It is one of many that have happened in our community.”
Alcantar spoke at a press conference outside CALC. Carlos Garcia, also participated in the mural project.
“Creating this mural helped me find my voice and express my culture.’ Garcia said. “Seeing the damage that was done to our mural makes me feel frustrated and hurt because again my voice is being belittled.”
Garcia and Alcantar told KLCC they will help restore the mural.
Police are investigating the graffiti as a hate crime. Recently a Black resident’s home in the River Road area of Eugene was the target of racist vandalism. The Lane County Sheriff’s office is investigating that incident.
Copyright 2021 KLCC.
