DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) — Nearly a week after people were seen carrying a hate symbol through downtown Springfield, concern is growing, prompting the city and its residents to call for unity in the face of hate.
Springfield residents and city leaders said they saw a group of masked protesters walking downtown with guns and Nazi flags Sunday.
The city was quick to denounce the act, referring to the protesters as a hate group.
Call for federal aid puts Springfield into national spotlight “Coming to a city like Springfield, carrying a swastika, carrying a rifle,” said Pastor Carl Ruby. “That in and of itself is an act of racism.”
Ruby, who has lived in Springfield since 1983, said this kind of demonstration is no more acceptable that those of a similar vein he’s seen in the past.
“It’s a shame that we have to look over our shoulders,” said Denise Williams, the president of the NAACP’s Springfield unit. “It’s a shame that we have to be careful where we go because of such groups.”
She said the presence of the group is totally unwelcome.
White House touts new immigration policy Members of the community are concerned about the group’s presence, especially with Springfield’s growing population of immigrants . They worry the demonstration creates an uneasy feeling for those looking to call Springfield home.
Despite the rise in hate language and imagery, immigrants are still adamant about making Springfield their home.
“We’re not leaving our county to disturb people in Springfield,” said Lendsie Aimee. “We’re just looking for an opportunity.”
The city released a statement on its Facebook page :
We want to inform you that a hate group from outside of our community made an appearance in the downtown core block today. Their presence is deeply concerning, and our public safety services took the necessary steps to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone in our community was maintained.
Mayor Rob Rue commented on the situation stating, “There was an attempt to disrupt our community by an outside hate group. Nothing happened, except they expressed their First Amendment rights. Our Police Division was aware and in control the entire time.”
We stand united against hate and discrimination and remain committed to upholding the values of respect and inclusivity within our community. Let’s continue to support one another and uphold these values that define our community.
City of Springfield
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