In a statement to the Maroon released last Wednesday, Maroons for Israel (MFI) stated they are “deeply concerned” with the theft of an authorized banner hung outside of Kent Chemical Laboratory.

The banner, which was put up last Monday, referenced events including attacks on Israeli soccer fans in Amsterdam this month, an attack on two Jewish students at DePaul University’s Lincoln Park campus, the shooting of a Jewish man in Rogers Park, and the recent arrest of two pro-Palestine protesters at the Chicago Loop Synagogue. Student Centers approved the banner in accordance with the mandate that outdoor signs receive advance written approval from the Director of Student Centers or someone designated by the director. 

In the statement, MFI said they were “deeply concerned” with the banner’s removal, calling it a “direct response to our efforts to raise awareness about rising antisemitism in our community.” 

According to MFI, the banner was stolen within twelve hours of installation. A University of Chicago Police Department report filed at 10:20 p.m. that night states that “an approved banner was taken from the quad by unknown person(s).” MFI says the banner was found in a nearby dumpster and re-installed.

“We are troubled by the implications of this vandalism, which not only violates university regulations but also infringes upon principles of free expression. This action suggests an attempt to suppress dialogue about antisemitism on our campus,” MFI said in their statement.