Early Friday morning, Adam Yauch Park—a beloved playground in Brooklyn Heights, named after the late Beastie Boys member—was discovered to have been vandalized with hateful messages. However, by Saturday morning, local children took it upon themselves to counteract this negativity in a beautiful way.
According to a report by NPR, just a day after witnessing their park defaced, the kids sprang into action. They covered the spray-painted swastikas and derogatory messages with colorful cut-out hearts and uplifting phrases. Among the messages was a quote from Lin-Manuel Miranda’s famous Tony acceptance speech: “Love is love is love is love is love…” and a playful sign declaring that the playground’s train “stops fascists.” These young ones refused to let hate prevail in their community.
This incident highlights a troubling trend of hate crimes surfacing after a high-profile election, with very little response from those in power. The President-Elect’s comments urging these acts to “stop it” during a recent interview did little to quell the rising tide of intolerance. Thankfully, the youth of our nation understand that love can triumph over hate, and they are taking a stand.
As a doctor and a resident near this park, I often see families enjoying the same spaces where these children played. The legacy of Adam Yauch, a cherished figure known for his activism and contributions to music, resonates with many, though the vandals seem unaware of his significance. They couldn’t even draw a proper swastika—it’s disheartening.
Kudos to the children who reclaimed their playground with their heartfelt messages and vibrant decorations. Today at 11:30 a.m., you can join them, along with local leaders like Councilman Jake Rivers, Rep. Sarah Martinez, and faith leaders, plus at least one original member of the Beastie Boys, for a “Stand Up Against Hate” rally in the park.
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Let’s continue to spread love and positivity in our communities.
Summary
In response to hateful vandalism at Adam Yauch Park in Brooklyn Heights, local children transformed the playground with messages of love and hope. Their actions serve as a reminder that love can overcome hate, and community leaders are gathering for a rally to stand against intolerance.