New York, NY, December 8, 2016 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today said it was deeply troubled over the “searing attack” on the home of New York Giants fullback Nikita Whitlock.

Whitlock’s New Jersey home was reportedly burglarized and vandalized with anti-Semitic and racist graffiti, including swastikas, “KKK” and the words “Go back to Africa” and “f****** n*****.”

“What took place at the home of Nikita Whitlock is unconscionable and a cowardly act which has no place in our society,” said Evan R. Bernstein, ADL New York Regional Director. “It is deeply concerning to see such a searing attack, apparently intended to intimidate and instill fear and one that has the potential to make individuals feel highly vulnerable and insecure.

“We commend Mr. Whitlock for firmly expressing that oppression, violence, racism and hatred have no place in our towns and cities,” Mr. Bernstein said. “He should know that ADL stands closely with him and his family as they cope in the aftermath of this hate incident.”

“We applaud the Moonachie Police Department for their work in immediately responding and showing the utmost sensitivity,” said Joshua Cohen, ADL New Jersey Regional Director. “When incidents like this occur, it is incumbent upon community leaders across the board to loudly and immediately denounce such hate.”

ADL’s Center on Extremism has been monitoring the proliferation of racist and anti-Semitic graffiti and vandalism, including the use of swastikas and other Nazi imagery across the country, as well as reports of assaults and harassment and has established a new reporting mechanism where the public can report any anti-Semitic, racist or bigoted incidents, and encouraged social media users to promote the hashtag #ExposeHate.

 

The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, is the world’s leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through programs and services that counteract hatred, prejudice and bigotry.  Follow us on Twitter: @ADL_NY