First Selectman Beth Heller began the November 13, 2018 Board of Selectmen meeting with a brief statement regarding news reports of Amity students speaking out against anti-Semitic behaviors. Her full statement is posted below, or you may view this portion of the meeting video by clicking the link below.
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Statement from Woodbridge First Selectman Beth Heller
November 13, 2018
"I read in this morning’s newspaper about Amity High School students speaking out at a Board of Education meeting last night about incidences of anti-Semitic and other forms of hate speech they have experienced in our community and our schools.
I am heartbroken to hear their first-hand reports of a rise in such intolerant behavior. At the same time I am very proud of these young people for speaking up. The first step is to shine a light on the problem. The next step will be for the Amity Board of Education and the School Administration and Faculty to take actions appropriate to meet this challenge.
I will state firmly: There is no place for anti-Semitism or any other type of intolerance in any community. Hate will not find a home in Woodbridge. I assure all residents that I will do everything necessary to uphold our community’s values and our equal rights to be free from harassment and bias incidents.
We will send a strong message that our community does not accept behavior that harms, intimidates, or targets anyone. I speak as your First Selectman to say: we will not tolerate intolerance."
— Woodbridge First Selectman Beth Heller