Mental Health Connecticut applauds Governor Lamont on the response to the defacement of the City of Hartford’s Black Lives Matter mural on Trinity Street, which was found over the weekend with graffiti depicting a swastika and a coded message of white supremacy. Local artists worked together to quickly repaint over the hateful message.
Immediately following the event, on Sunday morning, Governor Lamont issued this statement condemning the actions of those involved:
“I am beyond disgusted to learn about the graffiti that was left overnight on Trinity Street. These do not represent Connecticut values, and all of us as a community need to take a strong stance to denounce any messages advocating hate and white supremacy. We will not be threatened by the messages of anonymous people who attempt to divide us and instill fear. I appreciate the work by the Hartford Police to investigate this crime.”
Hate is an attack on a community’s health. At MHC, we know the power of living in a healthy environment and how that impacts our overall wellbeing. A healthy environment, either in our home or out in the community, requires all of us to meet hate head on. It starts in teaching kindness and acceptance.
Hate is outnumbered. All over the country, people are fighting hate and standing up to promote tolerance and inclusion. Unfortunately, hate can often take the spotlight and feel like it’s everywhere. That means it’s up to us to show up as a community to make the fight for good even more visible.
MHC calls on all communities and citizens to meet hate head on. You can make a difference by finding ways to heal your trauma, by getting involved in your community and by supporting those around you. Call out hate when you see it. Contact your legislators and other leaders to find out what they are doing to support Black citizens and other groups experiencing marginalization.
Luis B. Perez, LCSW
President and CEO
Info and resources on racial trauma: https://www.mhanational.org/racial-trauma
Visit Mental Health America for screenings and resources: https://mhanational.org/finding-help
