Manchester Leaders Condemning 'Hate Flyers' Found In Town

MANCHESTER, CT — Manchester officials Friday were denouncing what they are calling "hate flyers" found in several neighborhoods.

A statement was released by Town Manager Steve Stephanou, Mayor Jay Moran, Deputy Mayor Sarah Jones, Board of Directors Secretary Pamela Floyd Cranford, Director and Minority Leader Peter Conyers, Director Jesse Muniz-Poland, Director Zachary Reichelt, Director Dennis Schain, Director Jerald Lentini and Director Ed Boland.

The statement did not specify what was said in the flyers and did not identify what group was responsible. But town officials did say it came from "a white supremacist group" and what was posted is being "condemned."

Here is the transcript of the statement:

"Earlier this month, residents in multiple neighborhoods in Manchester received flyers containing hateful messages from a white supremacist group.

"While these repulsive flyers are intended to intimidate and marginalize certain members of our
community, they have no home here in Manchester. The Town of Manchester unequivocally
denounces messages, symbols and statements that promote hate and division.

"As a proudly diverse community, Manchester is committed to inclusivity and enthusiastically
embracing people of all different cultural and racial backgrounds. We will continue to proactively
work to make our residents of color and other historically marginalized groups feel welcome, seen, and heard.

"Although free speech is a constitutionally protected right, any resident who observes acts of
intimidation, threats, or unlawful trespassing should contact the Manchester Police Department
(860) 645-5500) and/or the Town Manager's Office (860-647-3123).

"To Manchester’s Black, Brown, Indigenous, LBGTQ+, Muslim and Jewish communities, your
neighbors and your Town leaders stand with you."