"My roomates and I have noticed it every time we walk by it," Rivera said. "I was wondering when something was gonna be done about it."

According to Dean of Freshmen Elizabeth Studley Nathans, the Cambridge Department of Public Works has been contacted to repaint the defaced signs.

Other measures have also been taken to monitor the possibility of future incidents.

"I have reported the incident to HUPD, so that our officers can be alert to any similar messages which

might appear on Harvard property," Nathans said.

Michael A. Kay '01, Harvard-Radcliffe Hillel chair, said he was upset by the graffiti, but said the incident was not representative of a widespread problem on campus and was most likely a random act.

"It's upsetting, but the reality is that there are people who are insensitive," Kay said. "This campus doesn't stand for intolerance, though, and I expect to see a strong reaction in the next few days."