Last week, a swastika about 5” in diameter was found on the back of a piece of playground equipment in Mindowaskin Park, which was promptly removed by the DPW after the police were notified. 

Upon learning of this incident, I alerted the Chair of the Human Relations Advisory Commission, and made plans to discuss with Rabbi Prosnit of Temple Emanu-El. I believe that an important part of fostering an inclusive community, as well as in addressing any act of bias or hate, is to have a wide and diverse array of representatives speak with one voice to denounce these heinous acts. 

Last year I signed on to the American Jewish Committee’s Mayors United Against Antisemitism campaign, and recently met with their Director, Rabbi David Levy, to discuss a closer collaboration to support their mission. 

I cannot state often and unequivocally enough how hate or discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated in our community. I remain disturbed and disgusted at the frequency of hate symbols that have been found, whether it be on our streets, in our schools, or now in our playgrounds. The common assumption is that these hate symbols are the acts of teens -- which has not been confirmed in this case -- but that makes them no less reprehensible. Regardless of who is responsible, we as a community have a moral obligation to root it out. 

I formed the Human Relations Advisory Commission (HRAC) last year because making statements denouncing these heinous acts is not enough. Words without action won’t change anything. 

The mission of HRAC, which is comprised of nine diverse residents, is to provide an egalitarian, welcoming, inclusive, safe, and productive community. By creating and fostering programming, both formal and informal, HRAC is committed to addressing conditions of bias, discrimination and prejudice by increasing our mutual understanding and respect of one another.

HRAC’s opportunities to provide these forums have been somewhat hampered by the pandemic, but they have plans in the works for town wide book discussions, anti-semitism panels in collaboration with the American Jewish Committee, and more. 

Ultimately, these important discussions need to happen in our homes. To help initiate those conversations, Rabbi Levy provided this link to the AJC’s “Translate Hate” glossary which demonstrates how antisemitic tropes, words, and symbols hide in plain sight.
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As an elected official I recognize my responsibility in setting a tone and creating an inclusive, anti-discriminatory, and anti-hate culture in our community. As individuals, we each have a responsibility to ensure we live up to those ideals in both words and actions. 

As we approach the Jewish high holy days, I ask that every member of our community reflect on what role they can play in contributing to the inclusive community we aspire to be. I wish all those in our Jewish community Shanah Tovah as Rosh Hashanah begins tonight, and an easy fast next week for Yom Kippur. As always, please reach out to me directly with comments or suggestions at mayorbrindle@westfieldnj.gov. 

-- Mayor Shelley Brindle