LETTER

A heavy heart
Ann Dancy, Epsom
For the Monitor

September 27, 2011

A week has past since we learned of the graffiti at the home of three families who live in Concord.

Each family settled in Concord after fleeing desperate situations in their home countries. Two families came as refugees, and one received asylum in the U.S. Each of these families was assisted by Lutheran Social Services, many other social service organizations and many, many community members.

My heart is still as heavy as when I first learned of the event. After hearing the news, I walked outside of my home to visualize a similar message written on the side of my own house. I experienced the same overwhelming feelings of devastation and vulnerability I am sure many of you felt.

As a community, Concord has done a wonderful job of rallying support for the families and others who experienced the recent trauma, if only secondarily.

We know we can not "undo" the hurt that has been caused, but the rally at the park on State Street showed that Concord will stand up and be counted for how we believe all members of our community should be treated.

Lutheran Social Services reaffirms our commitment to our newest neighbors and to nurturing a genuine welcome to all who call Concord home.

ANN DANCY

Epsom, New Hamsphire

(The writer is director of Lutheran Social Services, Services for New Americans.)

Links to related news items...

United against hate; hundreds rally to offer support for refugee families
Concord Monitor, 9/25/2011

Love Your Neighbor rally draws 300 -
by SHAWNE K. WICKHAM, New Hampshire Sunday Union News 09/26/2011

Concord Residents Rally to Support Refugees
by Elaine Grant, NH Public Radio -   9/28/2011

www.wmur.com - WMUR-TV - 9/28/2011