Mayor Fuller Responds To Anti-Semitic Fliers Found In Newton

NEWTON, MA — As of Monday, five Newton residents reported finding extreme, hate-filled anti-Semitic handouts in “Little Libraries,” free book-exchange bins set up around town meant to encourage community.

In response, the mayor released a statement condemning the fliers and appealing to what she called Newton's core principles.

“This is not who we are as a community. Newton stands united against anti-Semitism and all forms of hate. We reaffirm our core principles of respect, diversity and acceptance,” said Mayor Ruthanne Fuller.

These fliers attack Jews and mimic propaganda used in Nazi Germany, she said. >>Read more: Anti-Semitic Fliers Found In Newton.

The Newton Police Department is investigating and alerted both the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and the Newton Human Rights Commission on Sunday.

"Whenever there's a fliering incident the natural question is; 'who did it?' Here, we know who did it, and we have information about them," said ADL Director Robert Trestan.

Trestan said the group the Daily Stormer Book Club has a goal to spread hatred. Placing fliers around town is one way they attempt to do that.

"It's important for people to know who's responsible, why they're doing it and if are they a threat. What we know about this group is that primarily what they do is decimate hatred and try to infect the mainstream with hatred and anti-Semitism. And they do it in as provocative way as possible," said Trestan.

The head of the Boston ADL said it's important that the police and community members take these instances seriously.

"We want Communities to push back and say anti-Seminitsm doesn't define Newton. That's an important message for Newton to send back to these people. Free speech goes two ways. So when things like this happen we have to remember to stand up," he said.

Trestan recommends reporting any instances of hate to police as soon as it happens.

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Photo by Jenna Fisher/Patch Staff. Fisher can be reached at Jenna.Fisher@patch.com or by calling 617-942-0474. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram (@ReporterJenna).