Open Letter to Natick Community from the Select Board

RE: RESPONSE TO ANTISEMITIC SYMBOLS ON THE COCHITUATE RAIL TRAIL (Swastika Graffiti)

MONDAY AUGUST 25, 2025

Dear Natick Community,

Earlier today, Natick’s Jewish community was the target of an act of hatred and bias that will not be tolerated. A series of swastikas were painted on signage along the Cochituate Rail Trail. The vandalized signs were first reported Monday 8/25/25 at approx. 8:00 AM and the Public Works Department immediately removed the vandalized signs. We, as a community, are deeply saddened by this act of hate.

The Natick community draws its strength from our many passionate residents, our committed volunteers, and the many community-based organizations that serve Natick. Our Jewish community, in Natick, has faced a series of hateful attacks in recent years and our local Jewish neighbors deserve our care and support.

The Town of Natick, led by Select Board members, is committed to work with local Jewish leaders, to both actively listen and determine what action(s) best serve those in the crosshairs of hate. Today’s statement is a message of solidarity AND it also serves as a promise for action.

In the coming weeks, the Natick Select Board will be meeting with local Jewish faith leaders to discuss how to best address the rise in antisemitic activity.

Two resources:
[1] - An educational resource re: the history of swastika imagery (Holocaust Memorial Museum article - https://encyclopedia.ushmm.org/.../history-of-the-swastika)

[2] - The Natick Freedom Team provides support to anyone targeted by bias (www.natickfreedomteam.com)