Recent hateful incidents prompt East Providence community meeting

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — City leaders gathered at the public library Monday night after a recent string of hateful incidents in East Providence.

“It’s an opportunity for us to heal,” Mayor Bob DaSilva said. “It’s an opportunity for us to be heard.”

The discussion was held at the public library, just a short way from city hall, the site of two of the incidents.

Back in July, a Lincoln man was arrested for allegedly tearing down the Cape Verdean flag and stomping on it.

In June, another man was charged with vandalizing a rainbow crosswalk during pride month.

Jen Stevens, coordinator of the Rhode Island Commission on Prejudice & Bias, helped organize Monday night’s community forum.

“I’m a member of the LGBT community, I grew up in East Providence,” Stevens said. “It meant a lot to me when East Providence started holding its own pride celebration, and seeing a rainbow crosswalk made the city feel really welcoming.”

“When someone goes and defaces that crosswalk, you feel a little less welcome,” Stevens said.

“When something like this happens, it breaks my heart,” DaSilva said. “Because I know that’s not what East Providence is about.”

Among those on hand alongside the mayor was East Providence Acting Police Chief Michael Rapoza.

“No matter what background you come from, we’re gonna protect everybody the same,” Rapoza said. “If you happen to see somebody or something that may raise an eyebrow or suspicion, obviously give us a call.”

Members of a panel organized by Stevens shared their experiences with hate and how to overcome it.

“Do what you can to spread peace, and reach out to people who are isolated,” Stevens said. “I think a lot of hate comes from not being connected to community and not understanding differences, so I’d love to see people bridge those gaps and reach out to their neighbors.”