Man accused of anti-Israel graffiti seeks, receives forgiveness

By Guy Page

The Jewish owner of a Cavendish fitness studio tagged with anti-Israel graffiti says she has forgiven the man accused of vandalizing her business and hopes the incident can encourage dialogue rather than continued division.

As reported in the Vermont Daily Chronicle, Brenton M. Beers, 25, of Cavendish, is accused of spray-painting anti-Israel messages on the windows of DG Bodyworks during the early morning hours of May 20. Vermont State Police cited Beers later last month on a charge of unlawful mischief after he turned himself in following publicity surrounding the case.

Denise Gebroe, owner of DG Bodyworks, said Beers recently visited her studio and admitted responsibility for the vandalism, she told WCAX. 

“I truly believe that in order for us, as a people, to unify, we need to forgive, sit down and talk, try and figure it out, and come to solutions instead of making the hate continue spiraling downward,” Gebroe said.

At Gebroe’s request, Beers issued a public apology, which the pair posted online. Comments were numerous and overwhelmingly positive, including these two:

• “Much respect to you both. Thank you for showing that we’re all human and we all make mistakes but what matters is how we learn from them, take accountability, grow, and set an example for others through our actions. 🫶”

• “This is beautiful. Thank you! It gives me so much hope. Denise, you are an example of grace and forgiveness. This world needs so much more of this.”

The vandalism drew widespread condemnation and renewed concerns about antisemitism and religious intolerance in Vermont. Following the incident, a Vermont Daily Chronicle reader announced a reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of individuals responsible for crimes motivated by religious hatred.

The donor said the reward was intended to send a message that attacks on people and their property because of their faith will not be tolerated.

“A concerned Vermonter” who provided the reward said he was outraged by acts of religious intolerance and noted that constitutional protections for religious freedom extend beyond government action.

“The First Amendment says the government may not establish a religion or endorse a religion. It protects
people’s rights to practice their religion free from government interference and by extension, free from interference by others. Today, it’s antisemitism; tomorrow this contagion might result in an attack on your religion or your
opinions. There is consequence for intolerance, harassment, and violence. This reward ensures there is tangible value in ending that scourge. George Washington wrote to a Jewish congregation in 1791 that establishing religious freedom as a natural right, not just mere tolerance. It still resonates today,” the donor said.

Beers is scheduled to appear in court in June 16.