Police investigating after swastikas found etched at Framingham temple

FRAMINGHAM, Mass. — Police are investigating after two swastikas were found etched into a sign at the front of Temple Beth Sholom on Pamela Road in Framingham.

Police said the hate symbols were discovered Thursday morning and reported to police.

Framingham Mayor Yvonne Spicer said a swastika was found on the walkway of the temple around 10:30 a.m.

“Of course, this saddens me,” Spicer said. “Hate has no place in Framingham. Police officers already regularly patrol our Temples, and that effort will continue.”

Temple Beth Sholom also issued the following statement on the vandalism:

“It is extremely troubling to discover a symbol of animosity toward the Jewish community in the midst of our high holiday season. The swastika represents a tragic and deadly chapter in our people’s history and is not to be taken lightly,” the statement said. “I hope the perpetrator who carved this hateful symbol can understand the horrific images they have conjured for many of our community, including members of Temple Beth Sholom who are themselves survivors of the Holocaust.”

“We are also secure in the knowledge that this does not represent the sentiment of the Framingham community at large. We are proud of our place in this community and we value our relationships with our neighbors of all religions,” the statement said. “We are a vibrant and resilient community, and we have no intention of letting someone’s ignorant malice dampen the sweetness of our new year.”

The vandalism occurred as members of the Jewish faith just celebrated Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, this week.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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