Statue of New York doctor who operated on female slaves defaced

CENTRAL PARK, Manhattan (WABC) -- A controversial statue of a doctor who operated on enslaved women has been defaced by a vandal.

The graffiti was discovered Saturday.

The word 'racist' was painted on the back of the tribute to Dr. J. Marion Sims in Central Park.

While many recognize him as the father of modern gynecology, critics say he operated on African-American women against their will.

Some New York City officials have called for the removal of the statue.