A symbol of hate and violence, specifically a swastika, was found drawn on a student’s notebook at Westfield Middle School on Monday

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Nazi Symbol Discovered in Massachusetts Middle School

January 28, 2025

A symbol of hate and violence, specifically a swastika, was found drawn on a student’s notebook at Westfield Middle School on Monday.

In a letter sent to family members of students on Tuesday from Principal Jesse McMillan, several incidents are being investigated concerning swastika drawings. On Monday, a drawing of a swastika was found on a student’s notebook. Principal McMillan also reports that swastikas were found earlier this month inside a school-issued device, and on an eraser found on the floor.

The principal says the school has zero tolerance for hate speech and that they are working to enhance protocols for future incidents, “While we believe strongly in education as our primary tool to combat prejudice, we will also implement severe disciplinary consequences for any student found creating or promoting hate symbols or engaging in antisemitic behavior.”

In response to the incidents, the middle school plans to hold education sessions for all students and with the help of a new partnership with the Jewish Federation of Western Massachusetts to develop age-appropriate educational resources.

The school is asking family members to have open discussions with their children about hate symbols and their historical content. They will encourage students to report any concerning behavior to a trusted adult.

Principal McMillan tells 22News that no specific student has been targeted in relation to these incidents. “My first response is to condemn this—and I want our students, and staff to know that this does not have a place in our school community,” he added.

“Hate symbols of any kind have no place in our school community. Such actions create an unsafe learning environment, inflict real harm on our students and staff, and fundamentally contradict our educational mission. I want to assure you that we take these matters very seriously,” Principal McMillan reiterated in the school community’s letter.

The office of Senator John Velis also shared a statement regarding the incident:

“Senator Velis is deeply concerned about these acts of antisemitism over the last month at Westfield Middle School and his heart goes out to all students, faculty, and community members impacted by these disturbing acts of hate. As Senate Chair of the Commonwealth’s Special Commission on Combating Antisemitism, and as the Senator for the City of Westfield, the Senator’s office has been in communication with the Westfield Public Schools to offer our assistance as they continue to respond to these incidents.”

To report antisemitic incidents or threats, call (844) 726-3375.

https://www.wwlp.com/news/local-news/hampden-county/westfield-middle-school-to-raise-awareness-of-antisemitism-after-swastikas-found/

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