A message was sent loud and clear Thursday to vandals that targeted the Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial as politicians united to condemn the recent anti-Semitic attack in Boise.
It was a simple message: Hate will not be tolerated in Idaho. There were even pleads to the person, or persons, who committed the act to get help.
U.S. Senator Mike Crapo said he was appalled to hear the news of vandalism four days in a row at the memorial. He said frustrations need to be put aside on all Americans part to unite a divided nation.
"It is unacceptable, and I am so excited to hear that we are going to use the vandalism that occurred here to not only reject hate in Idaho but to expand the memorial and use it as an opportunity for growth," he said.
The public rejection of acting out on hateful thoughts was held at the very memorial, unique to the country, where the power of words is showcased. Some in attendance said they were there to show support for Senator Crapo in publicly taking a stand.
In the words of Anne Frank, one speaker said: "How lovely to think no one need wait a moment. We can start now, start slowly, changing the world."
"Hopefully, it's the last act of hate directed toward the Anne Frank Memorial but it's not going to be the last act of hate that happens in the United States," said Tracy Olson, a Boise resident. "I just hope it's the beginning of our Congressional Delegation starting to speak out against it."
It was also a chance for attendees to show how proud they are to have the memorial in the Gem state where the national reputation has not always been perceived as welcoming to all.
"It's not okay. Dylann Roof [Charleston church convicted mass murder] was basically just a kid," said Karen Smith, an event attendee. "So, this can escalate. I think it's really important that the entire community makes a stand when it happens and does take it seriously."
