OGDEN — Authorities at Weber State University are investigating a vandalism incident that saw a swastika etched into a table on campus.

According to an email sent to students obtained by the Standard-Examiner, the incident was reported Monday evening.

“At 9:54 p.m. on Sept. 25, a student reported via email that a swastika had been scratched into a table located near the south entrance of the Shepherd Union Building,” the email said. “The student notified individuals within the Shepherd Union and the Student Access and Success leadership team, and that table was promptly removed Tuesday morning, Sept. 26.”

The email added that all tables in the Shepherd Union were subsequently inspected, but no similar vandalism was discovered.

“The symbol was about the size of a dime, etched into the trim of the table,” said Bryan Magaña, WSU public relations director. “Even at the size of a dime, we understand how acts like this have real impacts on students, which is why we acted so quickly.”

He added that the investigation into who carved the swastika continues.

“Police have reviewed surveillance footage, conducted interviews with students and staff, and continue to patrol the Shepherd Union, along with all of campus,” Magaña said. “They haven’t identified a perpetrator at this time.”

The email sent by WSU noted that this is an especially difficult time for such symbols.

“We’re especially sensitive to the fact that this symbol was discovered on Yom Kippur, a holy day for people who practice Judaism. The swastika symbol is historically associated with Nazi Germany and anti-semitism, and has been used by white supremacy groups in more recent years. It is widely viewed as a symbol of hate and intolerance.

“Weber State University condemns actions that perpetuate racism or make people feel unsafe, and the symbol scrawled on WSU property is not consistent with the values of the university, which strives to create an inclusive environment where all are welcome. We are committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all of our campus locations.”

The Standard-Examiner has previously reported that between 2017-2021 there were a handful of incidents where white nationalist posters were discovered around the campus.

According to Magaña, this week’s incident was the first of its kind in the new school year.

“Like any other large community, Weber State sees its share of vandalism,” he said. “But, once reported, we act fast and communicate with students, faculty and staff, not only to share the facts, but also to provide resources to those who may be affected.”

He added that this instance of vandalism doesn’t represent what WSU stands for.

“Weber State is all about belonging, which is why we’re swift to act when incidents like this happen,” Magaña said. “I’m proud of the student who reported the symbol, along with the response from WSU police and staff who work at the Shepherd Union. It’s heartening to see our words put to action in real time.”

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Weber State police at 801-626-6460.

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