Confederate Flag Not Welcome At Swampscott Protests: Officials

SWAMPSCOTT, MA — The Swampscott Select Board spoke out against protesters in the town brandishing "the Confederate flag, other intolerant and racist signs, and a megaphone spewing hate" in a condemnation of what they called some of the persistent and often-confrontational rallies of recent months.

The Select Board members said in a joint statement Wednesday that while they welcome political speech in the town common "there is nothing normal — or acceptable — in these protesters' rhetoric."

"It is racist, hate-filled and ignorant," the statement said. "It is unwelcomed in our town."

"These protesters' presence in Swampscott serves only to increase our community's resolve and commitment to becoming a more accepting, inclusive and loving community that will work tirelessly to conquer the conquer the hate and fear these protesters represent."

Clashes between protest groups have caused disruption at Hadley Elementary School in recent weeks with parents forming a "Line of Love" to protect young students from seeing sometimes-harsh images and hearing the vitriol between opposing groups.

Hadley Elementary principal Ilana Bebchick said a decision was made to switch the school to remote learning last Thursday due to a political rally planned for Humphrey Street that day.

"Due to the fact that we are still awaiting results of the election and out of an abundance of caution, Superintendent (Pam) Angelakis and I have decided that (Thursday) will be a remote day of learning for Hadley students," Bebchick said in a letter to parents. "We feel that this is necessary to ensure the safety of students and the Hadley community."

Swampscott Select Board Chair Paul Spellios, Vice Chair Polly Titcomb and Select Board members Donald Hause, David Grisham and Neal Duffy signed the joint statement.

"These protesters speaking from Swampscott," they said of the protesters in question, "but they do not, and will never, speak for Swampscott."

More Patch Coverage: Planned Political Rally Forces Swampscott School To Go Remote