Faith Leaders Release Statement Condemning Vandalism and Acts of Hate
PHOTO | MCPS
Community faith leaders are showing their support for those affected by the hate-based vandalism that occurred at Westland Middle School in Bethesda.
According to police, a student reported to school staff that swastikas were drawn on the mirrors and walls of a bathroom stall inside a boys restroom.
“That is just one place in our county where the swastikas have appeared,” said Interfaith Community Liaison Mansfield Kaseman in the Office of Community Partnerships. “Most of the people I talk to can’t believe this is happening in Montgomery County.”
Several clergy members have come forward to condemn symbols of hate and have released the following statement:
“[On Thursday] United against hate and its symbols, we stand together as clergy of different faiths and denominations along the Old Georgetown corridor with the Westland Middle School community. While this hateful act is still being investigated, now is the time for families and individuals to stand firmly against intolerance, intimidation and indifference.”
“Symbols of hate and words of bigotry have no place in public discourse and certainly not in our schools.”
“As faith leaders, we are moved by the Bible’s call “you shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Lev 9:18). Therefore we will respond to signs of hate with signs of fellowship and unity. We will speak and teach against prejudice and encourage others to stand alongside the Westland families at this moment.”
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