‘It’s okay to be white’ signs posted in downtown Iowa City

Fliers with the message 'It's okay to be white” were posted around downtown Iowa City on Thursday, according to police.

In a news release Friday, the Iowa City Police Department reported fliers that 'may be considered offensive, unwelcoming, and goes against our values as an inclusive community” were found at the Dubuque Street Parking Ramp, 220 S. Dubuque St., on Thursday. The fliers included the message but had no other markings.

A sticker with the same message was reported at the corner of Clinton and Jefferson streets, according to the department's police log.

Police said that while some may find the fliers offensive or unwelcoming, they are protected under the First Amendment and don't meet the criteria to be considered a hate crime.

In January, Little Village reported stickers with a similar message were placed around the downtown pedestrian mall during the Women's March, held on the anniversary of the first march, which was held the day following President Donald Trump's inauguration.

Iowa City Police encourage people to report similar incidents to 319-356-6800.