July 29, 2025

Over the past nearly two years, many of our Newton community members have been profoundly distressed by the unfolding incontrovertible genocide by the State of Israel in Gaza. The events there have corroded community bonds here. Deep down, all our residents know this situation is wrong, regardless of the failures of leadership from, and poor examples set by, our elected officials. As a community, we have not handled this crisis well, nor reflected and protected our full diversity. I want residents who oppose the attempted annihilation and expulsion of the people of Gaza, especially those residents whose Palestinian friends and families have been enduring this daily or have already perished, to know that you are not alone in Newton and you are integral to our community. Your values are Newton values. You are supported by your neighbors from among all faiths and ethnicities. You are welcome here. Someday, nearly everyone will acknowledge the reality of what has occurred. I urge anyone to acknowledge it now.

– Newton City Councilor Bill Humphrey, Ward 5