WASHINGTON, D.C., March 15 – In response to news that at least forty-nine people were killed and many more injured in terrorist attacks at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, AFJ President Nan Aron released the following statement:
“We are grief-stricken by the attacks in Christchurch, New Zealand. No one should fear for their lives because of their religion. It is particularly heinous that these horrific acts were committed on sacred spaces of community and worship, during Friday prayer services. Islamophobia and white supremacy – and the dangers posed by both – are on the rise at home and abroad, emboldened by relentless anti-Muslim attacks in Western countries and racist, xenophobic rhetoric. In recent years, the United States has seen mosques and Muslim communities across the country targeted by senseless acts of hate and violence. Thoughts and prayers from President Trump and our elected officials are not enough. The prevention, detection, investigation and prosecution of far-right, white nationalist violence must be prioritized.”