Police say that a noose was found hanging from a lamp post outside a museum in Washington D.C. Saturday, making it the third such incident in recent weeks.
The noose —which is a historic symbol for hate— was found outside the National Gallery of Art, according to U.S. Park Police Sgt. Anna Rose. The Park Police are investigating this incident, as well as two other similar incidents.
A noose was found last month on the grounds of the Hirshhorn Museum, which showcases contemporary art and culture. Days later, National Museum of African American History visitors found a noose hanging in the museum.
The item was said to be found in a public gallery on the second floor, which houses the coffin of Emmett Till.
“The Smithsonian family stands together in condemning this act of hatred and intolerance, especially repugnant in a museum that affirms and celebrates the American values of inclusion and diversity,” secretary of the Smithsonian Institution Davis Skorton wrote. “We will not be intimidated.”