This morning, a hateful message containing a racial slur was found on Emwilton Place, in front of the home of Ossining’s Town Supervisor and Ossining High School. Ossining Police were notified and an investigation was initiated immediately.
It appears this message may have been in response to a lawn sign proclaiming “Black Lives Matter.” In Ossining, we know there is no act of racism that is too innocuous or too small for us to speak out against, and it is our responsibility as community leaders to do so. In Ossining, Black lives do matter, and hate has no home here.
This attack was personal, both to the family and home of our Supervisor, as well as to the educational home of our young people. It was an attempt to instill fear and vulnerability in our community, and we must stand strong against these efforts, through our words, actions, personal and professional lives. We will continue to speak out against these hateful acts, making it clear that in Ossining, those of us who love outnumber those of us who hate, and hope will always prevail against fear.
Together with other elected officials and community leaders, we will gather for a press conference today, Friday, October 09, 2020 at 03:00 p.m. in front of 18 Emwilton Place to stand together in solidarity and condemnation of this incident.
If you saw something or have information call the Ossining Police at 914-941-4099 and ask for detectives. All calls can be kept anonymous. This remains an active investigation.
Sincerely,
Dana Levenberg, Supervisor, Town of Ossining
Victoria Gearity, Mayor, Village of Ossining
Kevin Sylvester, Chief, Ossining Police Department
Dr. Ray Sanchez, Superintendent, Ossining School District
