Graffiti reading ‘Free Gaza’ defaces Lincoln Memorial steps
OAN’s Brooke Mallory
4:14 PM – Wednesday, December 20, 2023
Following vandals’ Wednesday morning splattering of red paint on the ground and a scribbled message that read “Free Gaza,” the National Park Service is now in the process of cleaning the Lincoln Memorial’s stairs.
The paint and graffiti were found by U.S. Park Police at the Lincoln Memorial Circle as well as the Reflecting Pool.
Almost immediately after it was found, conservators from the National Park Service started to remove the paint. According to officials, it could require numerous treatments spread over a few days to completely eliminate it.
Many nearby onlookers who spoke to reporters asserted that the person or group who did this was not only wasting their time and energy, but that they also had no regard for the historical landmark nearby.
Social media users also chimed in on the matter.
“Do people think they’re making a difference by vandalizing steps with a message that every sheep trend-follower on Twitter is barking out? Ya’ll don’t care about Jews,” said one user on X (Twitter).
Visitors are now no longer allowed to access the steps on the west side of the Reflecting Pool while the cleanup is being done.
Anyone with information about the incident is being asked to contact the United States Park Police tip line at 202-379-4877 or to email [email protected].
The Washington Monument was similarly defaced with tasteless messages and paint back in September 2022.
Additionally, in another incident, National Park Service workers removed graffiti off of monuments and memorials in the same area back in June 2020.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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How are the National Park Service and U.S. Park Police addressing the defacement and cleaning process?
Title: Lincoln Memorial Vandalized: A Disregard for History and Respect
Introduction:
On Wednesday morning, vandals targeted the iconic Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C. by splattering red paint and leaving behind a message that read ”Free Gaza.” The National Park Service immediately took action to clean the memorial’s stairs and restore its historic integrity. This incident, reminiscent of previous acts of vandalism in the area, raises concerns about the disregard for historical landmarks and the need for increased vigilance in preserving our shared heritage.
The Vandalism and Cleanup Efforts:
The U.S. Park Police discovered the defacement at the Lincoln Memorial Circle and the Reflecting Pool, where red paint and graffiti were scattered. Promptly, conservators from the National Park Service commenced the arduous task of removing the paint. Given the challenge at hand, officials estimate that multiple treatments spread over several days will be required to completely eradicate the vandalism.
Public Response:
Local onlookers expressed their dismay at the act, highlighting the fact that the perpetrators wasted their time and energy while simultaneously disregarding the historical significance of the landmark. Social media users also voiced their opinions, condemning the act as pointless and lacking true understanding of the complex issues at hand.
Temporary Closure and Ongoing Investigation:
During the cleanup process, access to the western steps of the Reflecting Pool has been temporarily restricted. Visitors are urged to cooperate and respect the ongoing restoration efforts. Authorities are actively seeking any information from the public or eyewitnesses that may help identify the vandals. The United States Park Police tip line is available at 202-379-4877, and individuals can also provide information via email at [email protected].
Previous Incidents:
This unfortunate act of vandalism is not an isolated incident. The Washington Monument faced a similar defacement with tasteless messages and paint in September 2022, and workers from the National Park Service dealt with graffiti on monuments and memorials in the same area in June 2020. These incidents underscore the need for heightened security measures and public awareness to protect our historical treasures.
Conclusion:
The defacement of the Lincoln Memorial demonstrates a lack of respect for our shared history and the cultural significance of national landmarks. Vandalism not only tarnishes these iconic sites but also undermines the values of dialogue, understanding, and peaceful coexistence. It is crucial that we work together to educate and foster a sense of appreciation for our history. Let this incident serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving and safeguarding our national heritage for future generations.
Note: This article will be updated as additional information becomes available.
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