Smithfield To Hold Equality Forum In Response To Racist Graffiti

SMITHFIELD, RI — The Smithfield Town Council is holding a virtual Town Forum on Race and Equality Wednesday, Feb. 17 at 6 p.m. in response to the racist graffiti that was found on the Stillwater Scenic Trail last month.

The forum will include leaders from the Rhode Island Commission on Prejudice and Bias, YMCA of Greater Providence, YWCA Rhode Island, and the Anti-Defamation League of New England and allow residents to share experiences and discuss their concerns in relation to persisting racism in the town.

The town organized the forum after resident Kim Ziegelmayer discovered the racist graffiti, which said things including "[expletive deleted] George Floyd" and "#BLDM", during a walk on the trail on Jan. 15 and called on town officials to publicly condemn the hateful act.

The Smithfield Police Department arrested three juveniles in connection with the graffiti at the end of January. The suspects were put before the Juvenile Hearing Board for their role in the incident with a recommendation from the police department to adopt a restorative justice approach to the crime.

Anyone who wishes to participate in the Town Form on Race and Equality can access the Zoom link here.