The past week and a half have been one of immense tragedy. From Hamas’ gruesome attacks on civilians to the Israeli bombings that have killed Palestinian civilians, the loss of life is deeply disturbing. So many have been traumatized, and those who survive in Gaza find themselves in a deepening humanitarian crisis.
In the Cambridge Public Schools, we have Israeli, Palestinian, Muslim and Jewish students, among hundreds of other demographic groups. Everyone we’ve met this week is sickened by the violence and terrified about what is to come. Incidents of antisemitism and Islamophobia here in Cambridge are deplorable, and we must forcefully address any instances of hate in our schools and in our city generally.
As we – a Muslim mayor and Jewish vice chair – lead the Cambridge School Committee, we recommit to our common humanity and ask our community to join us. We want our students to feel safe and supported during this challenging time. Cambridge must be a place where students, families, staff and community come together to understand our diverse experiences and nurture compassion for one another.
Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui and School Committee vice chair Rachel Weinstein
The writers are school leaders in Cambridge.
A stronger
Please consider making a financial contribution to maintain, expand and improve Cambridge Day.
We are now a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and all donations are tax deductible.
Please consider a recurring contribution.
thank you for giving permission to grieve for both sides of this senseless violence. killing is not the answer. It is terrifying and traumatic for children who may not understand. This is a teachable moment focusing, as you say- on respecting our humanity while trying to find a pathway.
What a great letter. Problem solved!
Thank you both.
Cambridge Public Schools fly the BLM flag and teach BLM curriculum. I have alerted the school committee & its “leaders” that BLM is an anti-semitic organization. BLM Chicago posted an abhorrent tweet with a paraglider in support of terrorism. No one has responded to me. Siddiqui and Weinstein are total poseurs who pay lip service to creating an anti-racist environment.