Graffiti discovered at Folsom elementary school contained hate speech on murals, walls

A mural at Gold Ridge Elementary on Halidon Way in Folsom contained the sun, several other stars and planets.

“Create a space of universal kindness,” the text read at the top.

In stark contrast to the mural’s command, graffiti containing hate speech appeared to be spray-painted over the artwork.

According to posts in a local Facebook group, 12 different areas of the school were vandalized with spray paint.

According to Angela Griffin Ankhelyi, a spokeswoman for the Folsom Cordova Unified School District, officials discovered the graffiti Sunday morning.

“Facilities sent a crew to clean up the graffiti before students arrived on campus that following Monday morning,” she said via email.

The Folsom Police Department said Wednesday there was an active investigation into the incident, which appeared to be isolated.

“Folsom PD and the Unified School District take these reports seriously,” said Officer Matt Stone, a department spokesman. “And we wish to provide an environment conducive to learning in a safe place.”

This story was originally published April 18, 2023 at 12:48 PM.