Photo credit: David Woolpy
By Netanel ‘Ted’ Deutsch
Publisher/Editor
When you drive along the riverfront, stadiums, bridges and the historic panorama grab your attention. What you do not expect is anti-semitic slurs emblazoned on a structure the city knows and loves.
Shortly after the protests on the John Roebling bridge on July 23 — potentially tied to this activity — the words “Free Palestine” appeared where thousands of people drive daily. On the corner of Elm and 3rd Street as you look toward Paycor Stadium, you will witness the huge defacement on a massive blue steel girder, clearly visible from I-71.
While this phrase may seem positive or supportive of the Palestinian cause, it is, in truth, used to promote anti-Israeli dogma, just like many other tropes common since Oct. 7. “Free Palestine” is not a call to aid people in Gaza. Instead, it is, as many people view it, a way to disguise hatred of Jews and Israel.
When I witnessed this offense, I reached out to several individuals and organizations to remove the graffiti. This area belongs to us all. I am certain Cincinnati wants to promote our positive qualities, especially in the heart of the city. It is the responsibility of the State of Ohio’s Department of Transportation to clean-up this hate-filled vandalism. Please join me in a call for its removal.
