05/19/2026
Sharing the joint statement between NPS, NPD and the Town of Natick that was sent to the NPS community earlier today.
An Open Letter to the Natick Community
RESPONSE TO HATE LANGUAGE AND SYMBOL
MONDAY MAY 18, 2026
Dear Natick Community,
Over this past weekend, hateful language and symbols, including a sw****ka and an anti-Black racial slur, were discovered on the exterior of the Lilja Elementary School. This hateful act was dealt with immediately and none of these images or language are visible by the public. The Natick Police responded without delay; that investigation is active and ongoing. Natick is committed to work in parallel to both investigate the matter and determine long-term, proactive efforts that protect against similar hate incidents.
The Town of Natick, the Natick Police Department, and Natick Public Schools unequivocally condemn this act. Antisemitism, racism and hate have no place in Natick. We recognize the harm that incidents like this cause for students, families, staff, and all members of our community and we do not minimize it.
We are committed to identifying those responsible and ensuring accountability. Just as importantly, we remain committed to continuing the work of education, dialogue, and community partnership to confront hate and foster a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all.
Natick is committed to proactive efforts that protect ALL who call Natick home.
In solidarity,
Town of Natick
Natick Police Department
Natick Public Schools