HOUSTON – The gates to Donovan Park are locked shut. The Houston Heights Association posted on social media the park is temporarily closed after inappropriate graffiti was found on the playground equipment. HPD said officers responded on Tuesday where they discovered the graffiti had racist language.
Sheila Blake said she has been going to the park since the 90′s. She showed up to the park with her great-granddaughter, but they had to leave, because the park is closed.
“It’s generational. This little one’s mommy was a little one like this when we first started coming here. This was going to be our first time,” said Blake.
Blake said its disheartening knowing someone put racist graffiti on the equipment.
“I think it’s terrible. This is 2024. This is the Heights. We have a long history here of people getting along with each other. It doesn’t make sense. Its really despicable to go to a children’s park and do that,” said Blake.
The Houston Heights Association did not wish to release the photos of the concerning graffiti, but scribbled drawings in chalk were seen on the wooden train and other equipment.
HPD said it is investigating the case as criminal mischief, but it doesn’t meet the elements of a hate crime. The Anti-Defamation League is also involved. ADL Southwest Region Director, Mark Toubin, said the organization receives a number of racist-related graffiti cases each year.
Officials contacted HPD and the Anti-Defamation League to investigate.
“Particularly our focus is on coaching self-help and making sure that people understand the process for receiving a resolution to the issue. In a case like this it would be making sure it was reported to the police department,” said Toubin.
“I just hope whoever did this, learns that this doesn’t make any sense,” said Blake.
Blake hopes the graffiti is cleaned up soon so her great-granddaughter can carry on the family tradition of playing at Donovan Park.
At this time. it is unclear when the park will reopen.
Toubin said those who witness similar incidents should contact law enforcement right away, then contact the ADL. Complaints can be filed here.