Controversial New Ads Debut On SEPTA Buses

Don't be surprised if you spot Adolf Hitler on the side of a SEPTA bus over the next few weeks. A controversial new ad campaign is now front and center here in Philadelphia and drawing all kinds of backlash from residents and city officials alike. More than 80 buses bearing a controversial anti-Islamic advertisement are now rolling through the streets of Philadelphia.

The ads feature a photo from the 1940's with Adolf Hitler talking to a Palestinian leader, reading "Islamic Jew-Hatred: It's In The Quran."

"It's very unsettling to see that," said Marie Oft from Cherry Hill.

The pro-Israel American freedom defense initiative purchased the provocative ads for $30,000 dollars. SEPTA took the issue to court but lost its fight to ban them.

SEPTA rider Gregory Scott says it's about freedom of speech.

"It's America and everybody has a right to their opinion. I'm not saying I agree with it, but I think people have a right to print or put on buses whatever they want."

Shawn Sams says she finds it offensive; however, she relies on public transportation.

Malka Brown is Muslim and feels the message on the buses promotes more misunderstanding about her religion.

"Yes ,I do find it offensive because every day we have to come out here. We are already harassed by people. We are already disrespected and that right there will give people the OK to disrespect us," she said.

The ads will run for the next four weeks. SEPTA says anyone who is uncomfortable seeing the anti-Islamic messages can voice their concerns on its website.