To the editor:

Recently, the Bainbridge Island School District issued a letter informing parents and BISD community members of recent anti-Semitic remarks made by students toward other students on school grounds.

While I applaud the school district for their informative and important letter, and it does address key aspects of education regarding matters of law, tolerance, and acceptance, every member of our community should be aware of these behaviors and put a halt to them immediately when they become aware of them.

If you hear something, say something.

Bigotry and racially motivated bullying are unacceptable behaviors regardless of your personal faith, race, or economic status. If we witness this sort behavior in our lives, we all must speak out against it at that moment.

We also must educate our children to stand up immediately and defend the rights of our peers and community members without preference. Bigotry erodes our unity, empowers the angered, and leads to more aggressive actions.

I applaud the district for increasing our awareness regarding these matters, and encourage community leaders to openly discuss and support tolerance and laws that protect our human rights. Through proactive support, and empowered citizenry, we can achieve a healthy and happy coexistence for the communities we are all privileged to enjoy.

RAFFI MINASIAN

Bainbridge Island