Salem City, School Leaders Back LGBTQ+ Community After Assault Charge

SALEM, MA — Salem city, school and state elected officials are showing a unified front of support for the city's LGBTQ+ community following accusations of a hate crime and civil rights violation against a group based on their perceived sexual orientation last week.

One day after Superintendent Steve Zrike said the district "will not tolerate" hate speech against gay and lesbian students and staff, and other members of the school's LGBTQ+ family, a joint statement signed by members of the Salem City Council, School Committee, U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton, State Sen. Joan Lovely, State Rep. Manny Cruz, Acting Mayor Robert McCarthy and Zrike said the city and schools are "committed to taking concrete actions to promote equality and inclusion in our community."

"We will work tirelessly to ensure that all members of our community are treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their sexual orientation, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender equity, or expression," the statement said.

Salem police said earlier this week that a group of young men is accused of harassing another group based on their perceived sexual orientation at the Wendy's on Lafayette Street last Friday and then hitting one of the victims with a gel-filled projectile from a toy gun after following them outside in what police termed a hate crime.

Police said an 18-year-old was charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon in the incident, while one other adult man and two juveniles were summoned to court to face civil rights violation and assault to intimidate charges.

"We believe that everyone deserves to live their life authentically and without fear of discrimination or violence," Thursday's joint statement said. "We know that the recent events in our community and beyond may have left you feeling scared and anxious. However, we want to assure you that we will not stand idly by.

"We recognize that the LGBTQ+ community is an essential part of our diverse and vibrant community in Salem. We want to ensure that you feel safe, supported and welcomed in our schools and in our city. We value your contributions to our community and appreciate the unique perspectives and experiences that you bring."

The statement thanked the Salem Police Department for its thorough actions in investigating the incident and charging those accused of harassment and assault.

"We also want to acknowledge the resilience and strength of the LGBTQ+ community," Thursday's joint statement continued. "Despite the challenges and obstacles you have faced, you continue to stand up for your rights and advocate for equality. We are inspired by your courage and determination and are committed to standing with you in solidarity.

"We urge you to reach out for support if you need it. There are many resources available in our community. As community leaders, we stand with NAGLY (North Shore Alliance for GLBTQ+ Youth) and with all our community members against all forms of bigotry, discrimination, bullying and harassment."

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)