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Woodbury selectmen issue unified statement condemning hate rhetoric and symbols
Summary
The Woodbury Board of Selectmen issued a unanimous statement condemning hate rhetoric and the display of hate symbols in town, citing attendance at Juneteenth and a Pride rally as reaffirmations of community values and pledging to protect residents' dignity and safety.
The Woodbury Board of Selectmen on July 28 issued a joint statement condemning recent reports of hate rhetoric and the display of hate symbols, saying the board "unequivocally rejects such conduct" and affirming its commitment to serve every resident. First Selectman Paul Zulpa, Selectman Karen Reddington-Hughes and Selectman Richard Coates said the town should be welcoming and safe for all residents.
The statement — read and discussed during the meeting — referenced the board's attendance at a Juneteenth commemoration and a Pride rally earlier this summer and urged respect for diversity. "We do not condone this conduct. We reject it," the Board said in the prepared remarks. Reverend Tuesday Rupp of St. Paul's Church later praised the Board for the unified message during the public comment portion of the meeting.
Why it matters: Board leaders said the remarks were intended to reassure neighbors who reported intimidation or hurtful displays and to draw a clear line against symbols or rhetoric that target people based on identity. The statement does not propose an ordinance or new enforcement mechanism; it is a public affirmation of values and a call for community civility.
