The Jewish Federation of Greater Orange County addressed reported anti semitic graffiti found in the bathrooms of Newburgh Free Academy Main Campus in an open letter of support to the Newburgh Enlarged City School District.

The letter shared on Wednesday, January 18 read as follows: “The Jewish Federation of Greater Orange County is committed to prompt responses to antisemitic and other hateful incidents in our county. We therefore support the actions of, and statement sent by, the superintendent of the Newburgh Enlarged City School District regarding hateful, antisemitic graffiti found in various bathrooms at the NFA Main Campus this week and last. Representatives from the Federation and our Zachor Antisemitism Initiative will be meeting with district administration to offer our support and partnership.”

A letter sent on behalf of Dr. Jackielyn Manning Campbell, superintendent of schools, assured the school community and stakeholders that the appropriate actions were being taken by the district to identify those responsible and the district has been in contact with the local authorities on this matter.

“Our Zachor Antisemitism Initiative is dedicated to educating on, fighting, and preventing antisemitism and other forms of hate throughout the county. We denounce antisemitism and publicly condemn acts of hate against any minority or otherwise marginalized community. We will not stand by quietly and allow fear, ignorance, or hate to fester in our community. We support the administration of the Newburgh Enlarged City School district and other organizations that honor and celebrate cultural diversity.”

The letter was signed by Rissa Cutler, Federation President and Wendy Cedar, Executive Director.

Cassie Sklarz, Director of Communications for the school district was not immediately available for comment.