Anti-Hate Rally to be Held in Rochester After Recent Incidents

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - The Rochester Branch of the NAACP will be hosting an Anti-Hate A rally and Forum on Sunday.

The local civil rights group organized the event in the wake of two incidents of racist vandalism in the city last weekend. Rochester police are investigating racist graffiti that was spray-painted on the home of State Representative Kim Hicks and the political signs on the lawn of her home. Police also responded last weekend after what was termed an offensive message was painted on the sign at the B'Nai Israel Synagogue in Rochester.

In announcing the decision to hold the rally and forum, the NAACP listed numerous hate incidents its members have observed since the beginning of the year that "attempt to undermine the fabric of the Rochester community."

The news release announcing the rally and forum says the NAACP is demanding strong accountability and is calling for the perpetrators of the vandalism incidents to be held accountable by facing criminal charges with enhanced penalties. The civil rights organization is also requesting the FBI investigate the recent incidents.

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The Anti-Hate Rally and Forum will be held at the Rochester Civic Theater starting at 3 PM Sunday. The NAACP says government officials, elected leaders, community leaders, and organizational leaders are expected to be in attendance, along with families, individuals, and organizations directly impacted by hate.