DR. ROBBIE GOLDSTEIN, CANDIDATE FOR U.S. HOUSE (MA-08), CALLS ON STEPHEN LYNCH TO DENOUNCE HATEFUL CAMPAIGN TACTICS INCLUDING RACIST VANDALISM AND TRANSPHOBIA  

BOSTON, MA - August 18, 2020 – Yesterday, after reports of vandals smashing windows displaying Black Lives Matters signs with bricks, and leaving behind lawn signs from the Goldstein campaign, Dr. Robbie Goldstein immediately called on his opponent, Congressman Lynch, to denounce this inappropriate and dangerous campaigning. According to WCVB, “the Boston Police Department is investigating the incident, including whether or not the vandalism could be part of a smear campaign against Goldstein.” Issues of equity, racial justice, and full support for the Black Lives Matter movement  have been a central focus of Dr. Goldstein’s campaign. 

These incidents fit a pattern of disturbing tactics from the Lynch campaign. Recently, reports have surfaced from multiple voters in the district who have described transphobic canvass calls, paid for by the Lynch campaign, aimed to dissuade voters from supporting Dr. Goldstein based on Goldstein’s involvement with the transgender community. When confronted on this issue, the Lynch campaign has refused to disclose questions from the poll.

In response to these reports, Dr. Goldstein issued the following statement:

“Political campaigns are, inherently, political. They are about opposing ideas, policies, values, and actions. The differences between candidates should be on clear display throughout an election cycle. These differences are what drive voters to the polls and ensure communities choose representation that reflects their beliefs. This process is what our democracy is built upon. Political campaigns should never be about hate.

Over the weekend, we were alerted to multiple acts of vandalism in Beacon Hill targeting those in the community who proudly support the Black Lives Matter movement. Windows were smashed and left behind in the broken glass were signs from my campaign. These actions are cowardly. These actions are rooted in hate. These actions are unacceptable. And, these actions are in no way connected with my campaign for Congress.

Immediately upon learning of the acts, I contacted those who were impacted and offered my support. I also confirmed that no member of my campaign staff or my volunteer base was involved with these actions. At the same time, we heard from our supporters in Boston that their lawn signs had been stolen. I do not know who committed these crimes and I ask that whoever did come forward. I also ask that Congressman Lynch immediately denounce these actions and confirm that this is in no way affiliated with his campaign or his supporters.

My work with the transgender community and other vulnerable populations inspired my run for office. Since we launched the campaign, we have centered justice and equity in our policy ideas and campaign activities. We have marched through the streets to loudly say Black Lives Matter. Our voices, our passion, and our fury with the structural racism in this country have been matched by my opponent with apathy for the Black business community and continued empty statements. 

We have a responsibility in this country. To march towards justice. To have our voices heard. And to make sure our representatives in government show up and do the right thing. It’s time for representation that legislates the truth - that Black Lives Matter. And, it’s time for us to eliminate hate from politics.”