In recent days we have seen two disturbing acts of vandalism in Newton targeting homes displaying support for hostages and Israel which has led Jewish neighbors to feel both upset and afraid.

Both the Newton Police and I take all hate incidents and hate crimes seriously. Newton Police are continuing their investigation of the premeditated destruction of posters and graffiti on private property in front of a home along Homer Street. Posters depicting photographs of hostages held by Hamas and a lawn sign in support of Israel were found Sunday morning torn and/or defaced with black spray paint.

This vandalism comes just days after another hateful incident in Newton where a rock was thrown through a front door window of a home with a sign supporting Israel.

If anyone has seen anything or has any information about these incidents or any incident of hate in our City, please contact the Newton Police tip line at 617-796-2121.

We gain strength and comfort by standing together, listening to each other, and connecting as a community of allies. Antisemitic and hate incidents are on the rise. Across the country these incidents and crimes are targeting Jews, Palestinians, Muslims, Blacks, Asians, immigrants, members of the LGBTQ+ community and more.

We as a community must stand together to condemn antisemitism and acts of hate and violence against anyone.

Our only way forward is to respect the rights, dignity and differences of others.

We cannot let hate divide us.

I will continue to speak out against antisemitism, hate, violence and terrorism.

In this world filled with pain and differences, my goal is to have Newtonians look out for one another with respect and kindness.