Asserting Our Community Values

In response to a series of recent race-based and ethnic incidents of harassment of minority college students, graduate students, and citizens in Keene, Cheshire County, and throughout the Monadnock Region, several community leaders have been meeting informally to compare notes on what they are hearing. The group believes it is important to reassert our long held community values of coexistence and respect for all, in this place that we call home. We are a strong and resilient community and region that is inspired by the example of people like Jonathan Daniels and other people of courage. We continue to nurture and protect each other and will not look the other way when faced with antisemitism, islamophobia, intolerance or bigotry. We ask that anyone who has felt targeted, harassed, unwelcome, or are uneasy about what they may be witnessing or experiencing to know that you are not alone. We encourage you to contact company, city or county officials, and your local police department.In addition, we invite people to add their name to this statement by signing it yourself.  Together, we will grow in compassion and dignity.