Antisemitic vandalism found on a public building in Wayland, Massachusetts, is sparking concern for the Jewish community and motivating people to stand up against hate.
Unfortunately, it’s the third time in three years a symbol of hate has been spraypainted in town.
WATCH ANYTIME FOR FREE
 |
Stream NBC10 Boston news for free, 24/7, wherever you are. |
A swastika that was painted on the side of the building housing the town pool is now painted over. But the question of who put it there remains.
The building is on a main road and at the entrance to the high school. So it was seen by quite a few people before it was painted over yesterday.
Get updates on what's happening in Boston to your inbox. Sign up for our News Headlines newsletter.
In 2023, a swastika was found spray-painted on Rice Road. And in 2022, the pool building was also targeted with a symbol of hate against the Black community.
The Wayland Community Action Network quickly organized a meeting for last night, where many in town gathered to discuss how they can be part of the solution. And Thursday morning, residents rallied to show their support for the Jewish community – and send a strong message that hate is not welcome here.
“I was absolutely horrified, my heart just broke,” said Schechter Boston Rabbi Rebecca Weinstein.
Wayland parent Beth Martens said, “This is an act of cowardice. If you have something to say, come have a conversation with me. I have plenty to say to you!”
Caroline Higgins, who created Wayland Community Action Network in response to the 2023 incident said, “I think the message is that we will stand up against hate no matter what.”
Wayland Schools Superintendent David Fleishman says the district is turning this into a teachable moment for students who may have seen the swastika from their school bus Wednesday morning.
Fleishman said, “This is an example of terrible antisemitism, so it’s important that our students learn about the history of this symbol and what it represents.”
Eleven-year-old Owen Ryan, a Wayland 5th grader, said, “It’s really sad a lot of the younger kids in this generation have to be like, ‘oh this is happening again.’ And we’re a diminished community and we’re here to stay. This isn’t going to get us out of here.”
Wayland Police are asking for anyone with information or surveillance video of the incident to give them a call at 508-358-4721 or leave a tip anonymously at 508-358-1726.
