Local Clergy Respond to Racist & Anti-Semitic Vandalism in Ridgefield Park

Clergy Statement of Concern

Once again, hatred has raised its voice in our towns. On Tuesday, June 13, 2017, racist comments and anti-Semitic symbols were scrawled in permanent marker and spray paint near the stage at Ballard Park in Ridgefield. The Ridgefield police and First Selectman Rudy Marconi responded immediately, and we are grateful that they are taking this vandalism seriously.

This is not the first time racial and religious hatred has been on display.

While anonymous acts of vandalism are certainly unnerving, we hereby state publicly that we will not yield to fear. We will not ignore this and other incidents, nor will we rationalize them as done by “kids being kids.” We will not shrug our shoulders, believing that responding is futile. We will not stand by and permit hatred, ignorance, and intolerance to fester in our midst, no matter at whom it is directed, or by whom it is perpetrated.

We have seen people of many different faiths stand up against actions and comments that seek to belittle others, and we are grateful for their initiative against intolerance. All it takes is one person to refuse to allow hateful symbols and language to exist unquestioned in our communities.

We will shine the light of decency on those who would divide us through random acts of ugliness. We will use healing words and actions to restore the balance back to our communities, our country, and our world. We will continue to confront hatred and ignorance, and work together with a sense of hope for a brighter future.

When there are opportunities to come together as a community this summer, we plan to do so. We will show our friends and neighbors that we are strong and not afraid to pray for a time when every day will be filled with decency, hope, faith, and peace.

• Rabbi Stefan Tiwy and Cantor Penny Kessler (United Jewish Center, Danbury)
• Rabbi Nelly Altenburger (Congregation B’nai Israel, Danbury)
• Rabbi Rachel Bearman and Cantor Jon Sobel (Temple B’nai Chaim, Georgetown)
• Rabbi Ari Rosenberg and Cantor Laura Breznick (Temple Sholom, New Milford)
• Rabbi David Reiner, Cantor Deborah Katchko Gray, and Rabbi Jon Haddon (Congregation Shir Shalom, Ridgefield)
• The Rev. Phyllis J. Leopold (Association of Religious Communities, Danbury)