A Statement From the Greater Miami Jewish Federation Following Violence in Charlottesville, Virginia

On behalf the Officers, Board and Staff of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation, we decry the despicable and lethal acts of hatred perpetrated in Charlottesville, Virginia, on Saturday, August 12, 2017.

The bigoted, racist and anti-Semitic rhetoric spewed by white supremacists, armed militia members, neo-Nazis and other extremist groups incited violence that resulted in the tragic and senseless death of an innocent 32-year-old woman and the injury of dozens of others. Two Virginia state troopers working in response to the violence also died when their helicopter crashed near the scene of the white nationalist rally.

Vile chants of the German Nazi rallying cry "blood and soil" – which refers to an ideology of ethnic purity – echo historical events that are chilling, as do flags with swastikas and anti-Semitic banners that were seen throughout the crowd.

Such poisonous acts of hatred, bigotry, racism and anti-Semitism must be condemned by all people of good will, and such behavior must not be tolerated under any circumstances in a free, democratic society. History has taught us all too well how extreme and hateful language leads to unbridled violence. We must commit ourselves to be unequivocal in condemning the groups responsible for such behavior and to be equally tireless in promoting tolerance, respect and understanding – hallmarks of our most deeply held and cherished American values.

Federation offers our deepest condolences to the families of those who died, and we wish all of those injured in Charlottesville a speedy and full recovery.