Dozens of people from various faiths rallied against hate outside the State Capitol in Hartford on Sunday.
The event was the first put on by a new group called the “Interfaith Coalition Against Racism.” And with recent events, organizers say its mission is even more needed.
“Precious Lord, take my hand, lead me on, let me stand,” the group sang.
Among those who spoke were religious and political leaders from across the state, including Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D).
“The same way people learn how to hate they can learn how to love, how to forgive,” said Meriden City Councilor Miguel Castro (D).
This event was organized following the deadly violence in Charlottesville last weekend. But for some here hate is personal and nothing new.
“I am surrounded by racism because people do like at school or something they look at me and then make a weird face,” said Esther Hernandez of Enfield.
Esther Hernandez and her mother among others hoping to spread a message of tolerance and support.
“She can’t hide from it. So yeah, I’m here for her,” Sarah Hernandez added.
The group that organized this event was founded after vandalism at a Jewish cemetery in Hartford last month. While police have said they did not think it was a hate crime, many are concerned about what they see unfolding across the country.
“We are at a pivotal time for great work and great change in our nation,” Faith Jackson, president of the Middlesex County NAACP said.
The group is pushing for the federal government to designate some right-wing groups as terror organizations. That could limit their free speech and ability to recruit.
