The City of Moncton has reversed a controversial decision not to display religious symbols, including the menorah and nativity scene, outside City Hall. The backlash also prompted Mayor Dawn Arnold to apologize for the city’s decision. During a council meeting Monday, Coun. Dave Steeves introduced a motion to bring back the religious symbols, in the interest of cultural diversity. That motion passed unanimously. In a statement to Global News on Monday, Mayor Arnold admitted there had been “a strong reaction” to the city’s decision, and that they had acted “too quickly.” “As a growing city, Moncton is continuously evolving its posture with respect to diversity, equity and inclusion. The City wanted to be more inclusive toward our community by repositioning these faith symbols; however, we obviously fell short in this transition,” she wrote. “We recognize the lack of reflection and understanding of the impact of this decision has had on our community. We apologize if our actions showed a lack of support toward any members of our community.” The Moncton Jewish Community, a group representing about 100 families in the region, released a statement Friday calling the decision not to display it “unfair” and explained that it “hurts profoundly the Jewish population of Moncton.” Francis Weil, the president of Moncton Jewish Community said since news of Moncton’s decision was made public, the local Jewish community has received messages of support from across the country, the United States, and Europe. The Town of Hampstead in Quebec went as far as to order a second menorah — to be displayed in support of Moncton. “This decision didn’t just impact the Jewish community in Moncton. This was a slap in the face to the entire Jewish community across Canada,” said Hampstead Mayor Jeremy Levi. I would like to personally thank each and every one of you for signing this petition as well as every news outlet who picked up the story. It means a lot to the Jewish community here in Moncton that so many people around the world (regardless of religion) stood up for what is right. I am proud to say that the tradition will continue for a 21st year! And this year will be extra special! Thank you all, - A proud Jewish Canadian