The Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island and the Sandra Bornstein Holocaust Education Center (SBHEC) were heartened by the strong community presence at last night’s Smithfield School Committee meeting.

Following nearly three and a half hours in executive session, the committee heard impassioned speakers from an audience of more than 150 individuals. We are deeply grateful to everyone who attended and spoke in support of the victim, his family, and the Jewish community.

As we await the outcome of the Attorney General’s investigation, the Jewish Alliance and SBHEC remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that incidents like this never happen again. Our focus now is on partnership—working with school leadership, educators, and community members to strengthen Holocaust and antisemitism education, deepen understanding, and foster respect across all communities. While this story may fade from the news cycle, our work is not ending, and we will continue to advocate for the victim, for greater education about antisemitism, and for our community.

Together, we will continue to lead with purpose, promote learning, and build a safer, more inclusive Rhode Island for generations to come.