AMHERST — Amherst officials are condemning a letter they describe as having hateful and racist sentiments that was placed on several vehicles Wednesday.
“We condemn the racist and outright inaccurate statements made within the letter regarding Black people or those of African descent,” reads the statement issued Thursday by Town Manager Paul Bockelman, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Pamela Nolan Young, Police Chief Gabriel Ting and Community Responders for Equity, Safety and Service Diretcor Camille Theriaque. “These statements are deeply upsetting and do not reflect the values of our town, which are built on principles of inclusion and respect.”
“Everyone in our community deserves to feel safe and respected,” they continued. “We remain committed to ensuring all members of our community feel welcomed, accepted, and celebrated in Amherst. “
Police responded and spoke to seven residents who received the letter. It was then reviewed by police, CRESS officers and DEI staff. The letter was addressed to “Amherst Residents” and signed by an organization referred to as the “Advancement of American Civilization,” which has not been identified locally or in any national tracking of hate groups.
The criteria necessary to declare this as a hate crime does not exist under state or federal law, according to town officials.
“Importantly, harm has been done. Harm has been felt throughout the community, and it will not be ignored,” the town leaders said. “We would like to especially acknowledge the disproportionate impact the letter has on the Black and African American community.”
