'Stand Up Against Hate In All Forms,' Says Westfield Mayor

WESTFIELD, NJ — Westfield Mayor Shelley Brindle addressed the community as everyone deals with the aftermath of the horrific terrorist attacks by Hamas more than two weeks ago.

"Everyone in this community should feel safe, included, and welcomed – a responsibility we all share. Let’s continue to stand up against hate in all its forms, including antisemitism and Islamophobia, and reject the small minds who perpetuate it. As a community, we rise and fall together and we must remember our children are watching how we respond," said Brindle at Tuesday's Council meeting.

The Westfield Clergy Association also held a community gathering on Tuesday calling for unity at St. Helen’s Church.

"This was a very moving evening for residents of all faiths, as we continue to stand in solidarity with our Jewish community," said Brindle.

More than 1,400 Israelis were killed after Hamas launched their now-infamous coordinated attack on Oct. 7, including civilians and children. Dozens of the deceased are U.S. residents, including some from New Jersey. It’s estimated that nearly 200 Israeli soldiers and civilians were also seized by Hamas and taken into Gaza as hostages. Read More: Hamas Attacks Deadliest Day For Jews Since The Holocaust, Biden Says

Meanwhile, Palestinian authorities say thousands of people have been killed in Gaza due to Israel's retaliatory air strikes – also including civilians and children. Israel has cut off water and electricity in Gaza, raising an outcry from advocates, some of whom have called Israel’s order for Palestinians to evacuate to the southern part of the Gaza Strip an “impossible” task.

Bridle asked for residents to support neighbors who are suffering, stand up against bias and hate in all forms, and live shared values of inclusivity and community every day.

She also addressed the recent reports from the Westfield Police Department about flyers in Town that were removed and defaced, and represented kidnapped Jews from Israel. Read More: Threatening Flyers Directed At Jewish Community Found In Westfield

"As the Chief stated, we have a zero-tolerance policy for any and all forms of bias and the Police Department will thoroughly investigate any reported bias incidents. This incident, of course, serves as further trauma for the Jewish community and is completely unacceptable," said Brindle.

Brindle concluded by asking the community to stand up against antisemitism and hate of any kind – publicly and forcefully.

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