Workers in white Tyvek suits cluster along the Narrowsburg bridge as I write this. A large yellow truck moves deliberately across the span. A long extending arm allows inspection of the bridge’s underbelly. This bridge is strong and recently restored with a new paved deck that doesn’t rattle like the old one did.

Weeks ago a banner was found hanging from the bridge. Crudely lettered, it referenced a “lynching in Georgia” and the “KKK.” It was quickly removed by the New York State Police in an unprecedented show of strength for this little hamlet, and few people actually saw it in place. The act was labelled a hate crime by the authorities and an investigation is ongoing to find those responsible.

It is hard to fathom the meaning of this. Was it a warning? Bravado? Pure malice? Whatever its intent, the act has caused consternation in the community. A letter was written to this paper asking for a public statement of outrage.

Some think the act itself is seeking a response. That it wants attention. Without a legal outlet for its hate speech, it is resorting to illegal means and should not be “rewarded” with a response.

I disagree. Hate left ignored will fester and grow. It must be condemned as quickly as it was removed. A community attacked must stand and be counted lest it be seen to give tacit approval to the hate-mongers. That we do not tolerate discrimination based on race, religion or lack of it, gender or gender expression may seem obvious to anyone who knows our community—but maybe it needs to be said. Loudly and often.

I hope our religious community makes a point to reiterate the need for tolerance this season and every season. Our schools also need to reinforce the message of acceptance for all people. No person is expendable in the human race. Political violence, particularly, is anathema to democracy.

Martin Luther King Jr. had some things to say about hate. In his famous sermon “Loving Your Enemies,” King said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”

I thought it might be useful to offer some ways to express tolerance in your workplace or group setting, perhaps in the form of a banner or sign.

“We commit to creating a safe and respectful environment for everyone”

“Everyone belongs here.”

“Respect for everyone is at the heart of what we do.”

“Our community thrives on connection, understanding and shared moments—thank you for being here.”

In that same sermon, Dr. King said, “I have decided to stick with love; hate is too great a burden to bear.” 

It is easy to feel intimidated by hateful rhetoric. To want to ignore it or hide from it. But like the degradation of a structure, it must be inspected and fixed lest it rot the whole.