We are a people of hope and faith. Our town is diverse with culture and age and religious convictions. Our common bond is that the God to whom we all pray is a God of life and truth. That common bond can never be bent or twisted or split. It is the bond of unity that sustains us and will be the best measure of how we continue to move ahead in these perilous times.
Young people are our future.
Our leaders are speaking about maintaining the respect and dignity of all. As we continue to condemn the terror inflicted upon us, we in Massachusetts must never for one moment let any feelings of anger and frustration lead us to act in ways that are wholly inconsistent with our core beliefs and values. Retaliation against anyone based on race, ethnicity, or national origin is repugnant to our way of life. To engage in such acts is to victimize America twice, and we will not let that happen. I want to send a special message to the students of Massachusetts.