Concerns about hate speech are drawing attention in Danbury after a group was seen demonstrating outside police headquarters.
The banner displayed a racist message, and Allie-Brennan alleged the group was affiliated with the white nationalist organization Northeast Action.
The state representative also said individuals at the gathering were heard shouting racist slogans, including "Keep New England White" and "White Power."
The incident has sparked criticism from local officials and community members.
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Mayor Roberto L. Alves released a
statement about the incident. It read in part, "Let me be very clear: there is no place for hate, racism, or white supremacy in Danbury."
"I've seen the video of what appears to be a white supremacist group gathered outside Danbury Police Headquarters last night.
Let me be very clear: there is no place for hate, racism, or white supremacy in Danbury.
This city is home to people who came here from across the country and around the world. People of different races, religions, cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs. That diversity is not something that divides us. It is part of who we are, and it is one of Danbury's greatest strengths.
There will always be people who try to use fear and hate to pull communities apart.
We cannot allow them to define us. Danbury is better than that.
We will stand together, we will look out for one another, and we will never allow hate to speak for this city.
White supremacy is not welcome here. Racism is not welcome here. Hate is not welcome here."
News 12 has reached out to the Danbury Police Department for additional information about the incident.
HATE SPEECH
A photo posted by a state lawmaker shows a group displaying a racist message outside police headquarters in Danbury.