This week, principals at both Brown Middle School and Newton South High School informed families that swastikas were found on school property. Unfortunately, these are only two of the many antisemitic incidents reported in Newton Public Schools in 2022.
FORJ Newton does not tolerate hate or discrimination of any kind, and stands in solidarity with Jewish communities in Newton and beyond.
In response, we are planning a meeting for FORJ School Leaders to both plan a coordinated response from their individual schools and develop a strategic follow-up plan for educating the wider community about antisemitic (anti-Jewish) hate.
We are also reaching out to the Mayor’s office, NPS, and other partners to see how we can support and amplify the fight against antisemitism.
FORJ Newton looks forward to continued work with our partners to envision a Newton where everyone feels welcome and celebrated, regardless of their race, ethnicity, religious affiliation or other identities.
Here are a several resources available for the Newton community:
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) works to train students and teachers to understand and challenge bias by empowering them with constructive responses to combat antisemitism. Newton Public Schools has a long-standing partnership with ADL.
Rejecting Hate and Antisemitism: Standing with Our Neighbors During Challenging Times - Wednesday, April 6 at 6:30 PM
Resources on how to talk to children about Antisemitism
Check out Newton South High School’s FORJ statement on Antisemitism
For more information, you can reach FORJ at contact@forj.org