FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Saturday, July 23, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Melrose Police and Human Rights Commission Issue Statement on Recent Acts of Violence in Nation

The Melrose Police Department (MPD) and members of the Melrose Human Rights Commission (MHRC) are mindful of the recent acts of hate and intolerance around the country and that residents in Melrose may be concerned and affected here at home.

Over the course of the last couple of weeks, we have seen too many lives lost to violence and intolerance. These hateful acts have no place in this city or throughout our country. The senseless acts of violence toward individuals due to their race, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity, or toward police officers themselves, are extremely troubling and saddening, and are attacks on society itself.

We grieve with the families of those who are suffering the loss of loved ones and we honor the lives of the fallen police officers who tragically died protecting their communities. Let us recommit to our shared values, our collective dignity, and concentrate on what we can do to maintain a strong and inclusive community.

The mission of the MPD has been and will always be centered on a commitment to strengthen positive relationships with our residents. The MPD cares about this community, works with this community, and is a part of this community. The department promotes an all-inclusive culture that is representative of the residents who call this city home and every member of the MPD remains vigilant in maintaining a community that is safe and welcoming to all. If you encounter a criminal act, please call 781-665-1212, or 9-1-1 in the event of an emergency.

The MHRC is committed to cultivating a positive atmosphere in the community and promoting understanding of diverse cultures and issues through education and community action. It was created to address issues of human and civil rights, with the goals of preventing problems before they arise and of resolving them if they do. If you encounter an act of discrimination, please call the MHRC hotline at 617-979-4140 or email MHRC at melrosehrc@cityofmelrose.org. To stay up-to-date on MHRC meetings and initiatives, visit https://www.facebook.com/MelroseHRC/.

Signed,

Chief Michael Lyle
Melrose Police Department

Adam C. LaFrance
Chair, Melrose Human Rights Commission

Kristina Racek Pechulis
Vice Chair, Melrose Human Rights Commission

Shawn MacMaster
Melrose Human Rights Commission

Manisha Bewtra
Melrose Human Rights Commission, Secretary

Rabbi Arnie Fertig
Melrose Human Rights Commission

Edward Schmitt
Melrose Human Rights Commission

Mathew Helman
Melrose Human Rights Commission

Maya Jamaleddine
Melrose Human Rights Commission

Kathy Harlow
Melrose Human Rights Commission