Members of the Beach community, it is with a heavy heart that I take this opportunity to reflect on and denounce the tragic events that occurred in our country this past week.
Last Wednesday, Oct. 24, Gregory Bush attempted to barge into a predominantly African-American church in Kentucky and harm churchgoers. After an unsuccessful attempt, Bush headed to a local grocery store and killed 2 unarmed African-Americans. And on Saturday, Oct. 27, Robert Bowers entered a Synagogue in Pittsburgh and killed 11 people. Both men entered places of worship, community safe havens, and places of peace - only to inflict harm and pain on others. Both of these are hate crimes, and cannot be forgotten.
In this difficult national climate, it is important that we remind ourselves that resisting hate, and embracing the joy of our existence is powerful. Although horrific acts like these may make many of us afraid, it is in times like these that we must push ourselves to stand strong; to stand together as a coalition of people who care about humanity. We must stand in solidarity with our Jewish and Black siblings, join together as one and prove these criminals wrong.
May the victims of these atrocious crimes, fueled by white supremacy, rest in the power of unity.
