VIGO COUNTY, Ind (WTWO, WAWV) An investigation is underway into Nazi hate propaganda found here in the valley. Bags containing white supremacy flyers were found on residential lawns. Also, a number of organizations and business were targeted.
Those at the CANDLES Museum wish things were different, but messages of hate targeted this place of remembrance.
Bags like the one you see here, were found in front of the museum near third street Monday.
“You always hope that it doesn’t happen to you, you’re sad that it happens to other people, but you don’t want it on your own door step,” Leah Simpson said.
Leah Simpson Director of the Candles Holocaust Museum spoke at a rally two days and so did a number of other concerned people.
Earlier this week unifying chants from residents and local organizations were heard on the steps of the Vigo County Courthouse.
The group wanted to show the community that propaganda and hate doesn’t belong in the valley.
“Hate crimes nationally for anti-Semitism is on the rise and well it’s a sinking feeling,” Simpson said. “You feel very vulnerable.”
It’s not the first time the museum has been a target.
Back in 2003, the museum was destroyed by an arsonist. Eva Kor vowed to rebuild, and with the help of a generous public outpouring of support, the museum was rebuilt and reopened in 2005.
Simpson says the act was hurtful, but the museum will continue to preach and share their message of love and forgiveness.
“I think it’s important that Terre Haute has a united front. I think the slogan ‘No Hate in Our State,” is perfect,” Simpson said. “We don’t want to give any fame to these people however, we want them to know that this is not going to be acceptable in our community.”
Vigo County Chief Deputy Prosecutor Rob Roberts says the prosecutor’s office is assisting the Vigo County Sheriff’s department in this investigation.
Several sites in Terre Haute and in Paris, Illinois also received bags containing Nazi related propaganda.
