Hate Group Graffiti Discovered on Light Poles at Veterans Memorial Plaza in Dubuque

On Monday, Nov. 9, City of Dubuque staff discovered stickers/decals promoting a white supremacy hate group on light poles at the Veterans Memorial Plaza parking area and McAleece Sports Complex parking area on Chaplain Schmitt Island. The decals or remnants of decals were found on six light poles and have been removed by City staff.

The group promoted on the decals is a white nationalist group and is designated as a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center and the Anti-Defamation League. The City is choosing to not publicly identify the group and avoid giving it the attention it seeks.

“There is no place in our society for white supremacists and I condemn this behavior on behalf of the City Council and our community,” said Dubuque Mayor Roy D. Buol.  “Furthermore, to attempt to promote such an un-American concept near a veterans memorial is an affront to our veterans and their sacrifices to protect our nation. This is a divisive and anxious time for our country and we must reject attempts like this to sow more discord. Instead, let’s all recommit ourselves to celebrating the diversity that makes our nation the greatest on Earth.”

The incident is under investigation by the Dubuque Police Department and anyone with information is asked to call 563-589-4410. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online at www.cityofdubuque.org/police.