Statement on Orlando Attacks

The Jewish Federation of Lehigh Valley is outraged and saddened by the tragic and horrific mass shooting this weekend at Pulse nightclub in Orlando. This act of terror and hate has left 49 people confirmed killed and at least 53 more severely injured. We were dismayed to learn of this horrifying attack on the LGBTQ community while Jews around the world were celebrating the holiday of Shavuot, which commemorates the anniversary of the day God gave the Torah to the Jewish people at Mount Sinai.
 
A key tenet of the Torah is that humankind was created in God’s image, and therefore we must treat one another with compassion and respect. The Jewish Federation condemns those who target a particular community. We will not stand idly by and let terrorists and those who espouse hatred win. Instead, we pledge our devotion and loyalty to all communities who are subject to hatred and discrimination. We will work together to fight back and stand in solidarity together.
 
The entire Jewish community in the Lehigh Valley mourns for those murdered, offers our condolences to their families and prays for a swift recovery of the injured. All Americans were attacked, but the LGBTQ community was targeted. We stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ community both locally and in Orlando.

 

0Comments

Add Comment