Jan 26, 2017

Statement on Tragic Shooting in Quebec Mosque

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation, its Jewish Community Relations Council and Rabbinical Association of Greater Miami, we express our shock and dismay over the tragic shooting in the Quebec Islamic Cultural Center. This horrific attack took place during prayers on the evening of January 29, 2017, in what Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called a "terrorist attack on Muslims." We extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the six people who were killed and wish a complete recovery to the eight people who were wounded during the attack.

We decry the current climate of hate, bigotry and intolerance that is festering in our world, creating an environment in which such a senseless tragedy could take place. We must always stand together and speak out against divisive and hateful rhetoric and uphold the American values of tolerance, respect and civility. According to the anti-intolerance watchdog, the Southern Poverty Law Center, more than 700 incidents of harassment, including racist, anti-Muslim and anti-Semitic acts, have been reported since early November. Let us remain vigilant and vocal in condemning any and all forms of prejudice, so that every person can live in safety and security, a fundamental human right.