We were dismayed to hear about the recent incidents of hate messages and acts in CT Ccommunities. But we’re also heartened by the swift responses by local community leaders, faith communities, NAACP leaders, and state officials condemning those acts.
Incidents in Windsor and Rocky Hill/Wethersfield show the power of speaking out clearly and quickly when those who want to sow hate and division come to our communities.
In Windsor, Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz joined Mayor Nuchette Black-Burke and NAACP Greater Hartford Branch President Corrie Betts to decry the string of hate-motivated vandalism. A Pride flag was torn down from the town’s First Church, a plaque honoring Black veterans was stolen from a cemetery, and a bench honoring two Black community leaders was stolen from another cemetery.
The acts are “despicable and reprehensible,” Bysiewicz said. “When we see acts of hate, we must stand up and call them out.”
“Hate is not welcome here in Windsor, Connecticut,” said Mayor Black-Burke. “It will not be tolerated.”
“We cannot continue to minimize acts that threaten the very fabric of our community,” Corrie Betts said.
In Rocky Hill and Wethersfield, spray-painted graffiti depicting “racist and offensive messaging”, including a swastika and antisemitic writing, was found in different locations, covering vehicles, fences and street signs.
In response, Rocky Hill Congregational Church volunteers began giving out “hate has no home here” signs to residents of the affected neighborhoods. “We’re here to do what needs to be done,” volunteer Sandi Kelly of Rocky Hill said. Reverend David Figliuzzi said, “I believe that when hate is putting its voice out there, love can be louder and must be stronger.”
To read more about these incidents and the resulting actions by community leaders, visit the articles on MSN and Connecticut Public.
