SAN DIEGO (SDJW) — A day after the Shabbat morning massacre at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, reactions from Jewish and non-Jewish organizations and individuals continued to come into the offices of San Diego Jewish World via email. In addition to messages from those individuals and organizations that spoke out on Saturday, there were the following commentaries, listed below in alphabetical order.
Meanwhile, in Pittsburgh, police listed the names of the victims of Saturday’s shooting. They may be found by clicking here. Also by clicking here.
American Jewish Committee, CEO David Harris: The American Jewish Committee (AJC) today called on Jewish communities across the country—along with elected officials, religious and civic leaders, and other communal allies—to flock to synagogues this coming Shabbat (Friday night and Saturday, November 2-3) in a nationwide campaign named #ShowUpForShabbat. The AJC initiative was launched in response to the horrific attack at Tree of Life Or L’Simcha Congregation in Pittsburgh, which left 11 Jewish worshipers dead. “This weekend, I will #ShowUpForShabbat. I encourage all members of the Jewish community and all people of conscience across our country to join me. What could be a more fitting response to the terror in Pittsburgh? We are not afraid. We are not going to think twice about affirming our identity and faith. We are not alone.” Representatives of AJC’s 22 offices across the United States are reaching out to communal partners and local government officials to ask them to participate in the #ShowUpForShabbat campaign. Simultaneously, the organization’s 11 international offices are working with partners in over 35 Jewish communities around the globe to launch similar initiatives locally. Other local, national, and international Jewish organizations are being asked to encourage their members to participate in the campaign. Synagogues are being called on to welcome the anticipated influx of attendees at their Shabbat services with explanatory programming and rabbis are being asked to dedicate their sermons to discussing the initiative. Social media users are being encouraged to tweet and post about their plans to attend Shabbat services this weekend using the hashtag #ShowUpForShabbat. The community of conscience must stand as one, whether in the face of the hate-motivated attack against a black church in Charleston, which took nine lives, or a synagogue in Pittsburgh, which took 11 lives. We are determined to ensure that love triumphs over hate, good over evil, unity over division. That’s our America.”
American Jewish Congress, President Jack Rosen — “In the shadow of the still-unfolding tragedy in Pittsburgh, I write today with grave concern for American Jews and indeed for the soul of America. As President of the one of the oldest and most prominent organizations dedicated to the issues and interests of American Jews, I have written too many messages of condolence and solidarity to ethnic and religious groups that have been the targets of the increasing hatred and violence gripping our nation. I have issued too many unheeded warnings about creeping anti-Semitism in our politics and discourse. Our nation is in danger. The survival and success of the Jewish people to whom the American Jewish Congress is devoted is not an end it itself, it is but an example of the American idea of tolerance and diversity at work. It is this very idea that was threatened in Pittsburgh. It is this very idea that was threatened in Charlottesville, in Charleston, and everywhere unchecked racial and religious intolerance has spilled into its inescapable outcome: violence.
“It is time for a national reckoning that can restore our commitment to one nation that is home to people of many beliefs and backgrounds. This is at once deeply personal and an intimate national process. We must all look within ourselves on how to live the American creed, and we must look to our leaders to help us fulfill our destiny as a shining example of tolerance, diversity, and human progress. The Jewish community in particular needs to recognize the seriousness of the threat before us, which can no longer be viewed as isolated spasms of ignorance and violence. We must come together and join with all people of peace and goodwill to fight this ugly, pervasive and growing stain on America’s character.”
American Zionist Movement –– “AZM mourns those murdered in the horrific shooting at the Tree of Life Congregation and prays for the speedy and full recovery of those injured. That this anti-Semitic attack took place during Shabbat worship services has upset all of us. We join in expressing solidarity with those in the Pittsburgh community. We express our deepest condolences to the families of the victims. May they be comforted among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.”
Anti-Defamation League, San Diego Region, Director Tammy Gillies — By now, we have all seen the news: 11 lives lost to anti-Semitism at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburg during a Saturday morning Shabbat service. This tragic act of violence offers a sobering reminder of what feelings of hate can look like in action.Now, more than ever, we must stand together as a community in this moment to denounce anti-Semitism and hate in all of its forms. Please join us October 29 at 7 PM for Standing Together Against Hate: A Community Vigil as we honor the lives taken in the Tree of Life synagogue attack, and send a united message that our country will not be a home for hate. The gathering—open to all members of the community–will be held at Congregation Beth Israel (9001 Towne Centre Dr, San Diego, CA 92122) , with free parking available next door at the Gateway lot. *For security purposes, please be prepared to show ID, and large bags will not be allowed into the event.
As ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt stated in response to these horrific murders: “It is simply unconscionable for Jews to be targeted during worship on a Sabbath morning, and unthinkable that it would happen in the United States of America in this day and age. Unfortunately, this violence occurs at a time when ADL had reported a historic increase in both anti-Semitic incidents and anti-Semitic online harassment .”
ADL, along with our host Congregation Beth Israel, and our partners Jewish Community Foundation San Diego, Jewish Family Service of San Diego, Jewish Federation of San Diego County, the Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center, Leichtag Foundation, and the San Diego Rabbinical Association.
Bend the Arc, Jewish Action — Hundreds of Jewish Americans and their allies gathered outside the White House today (Sunday_ in a National Solidarity Rally to honor the 11 victims of yesterday’s deadly shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, PA and to spotlight President Trump’s role in encouraging and enabling this violence. Participants wore black ribbons and placed stones on the ground, traditional Jewish mourning rituals.The multiracial, interfaith gathering demonstrated unity among the targets of white nationalist violence, including Jews, Muslims, Sikhs, immigrants, people of color, and LGBTQ people. A large banner carried a message from the group to President Trump, delivered on behalf of Jewish leaders in Pittsburgh: “Trump, Our Blood is on Your Hands.” “Through his hateful, white nationalist rhetoric and policies, President Trump is creating the conditions for violence against our Jewish communities and the communities targeted by his bigoted agenda,” said Stosh Cotler, CEO of Bend the Arc: Jewish Action. “We are here to make clear to the President and his enablers that our communities hold them responsible for putting our lives in danger. Through our action in solidarity, we will outlive those who seek to do us harm, and we will honor the memories of the victims of yesterday’s horrific massacre.”
“Although I’d rather be with my people in Pittsburgh in this moment, it is nearly as meaningful to be in DC to directly to deliver this message from the people of Pittsburgh,” said Joshua Friedman, a leader of Bend the Arc: Jewish Action’s Pittsburgh Moral Minyan. “‘President Trump, you are not welcome in Pittsburgh until you fully denounce white nationalism, until you stop targeting and endangering all minorities, until you cease your assault on immigrants and refugees, and until you commit yourself to compassionate, democratic policies that recognize the dignity of all of us.’” In addition to Cotler, other speakers at the rally included Joshua Friedman, a leader of Bend the Arc: Jewish Action’s Pittsburgh Moral Minyan; Sara Fierstein, a member of Pittsburgh’s Jewish community; Linda Sarsour, a leading Muslim American political activist; Antonia Pena from the National Domestic Workers Alliance; and Bahadur Singh of Sikh Sewa.
Boulder (Colorado) Jewish Community Center, Executive Director Jonathan Lev and Board President Jason Zickerman — “We are heartbroken as we mourn the victims of this hateful attack, and our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, families, and greater community. We understand incidents like this bring up a range of emotions, as well as questions about our community’s safety and security. While we have not received any indications of threats to additional Jewish institutions, we treat this as a time of ‘heightened awareness.’ Thus, we want to take this opportunity to reiterate that safety and security will always be our number one priority and inform you of our protocols. As is our standard operating procedure, we are in communication with local law enforcement, continue to receive updates and information from national agencies, and convene our Safety and Security Team to review, implement, and/or modify safety and security measures. One of the most important things we can do right now as a community is to is stand in solidarity with the Tree of Life Congregation and show the world we are stronger than hate. We invite you to join us as we gather tomorrow at Congregation Har HaShem at 4:30 pm for a unified and healing response to the shooting. Special thanks to Congregation Har HaShem for providing the space for us to join together in community while we mourn the lives of those taken and wounded at the Tree of Life Congregation. … Additionally, the Boulder District Attorney’s office is scheduled to hold an event, ‘The Community Response to Hate’ on Monday, October 29 from 5 – 7:30 pm at the Boulder JCC. There will be two panel discussions: Fighting Bias in Our Community, and Hate Crimes, Bullying, and Social Media. In light of this recent tragedy, we encourage you to come and learn how we can all remain vigilant in these uncertain times.”
Chabad of University City (San Diego) — “The community is invited to a Memorial Service for the victims of recent shooting in Pittsburgh, PA. This will take place Monday evening at 7pm at Chabad of UC. We are deeply saddened by this unspeakable tragedy that hit our brethren in Pittsburgh. It has affected all Jews everywhere and our hearts go out to the families who lost loved ones and to those who were injured; including the brave police, swat and other first responders who risked their very lives to help others. It is said that tragedy often brings out the very best in people; and now we see heroism, faith and people of all backgrounds coming together. We encourage people to show their solidarity by attending services and programs and not to cower in fear. The anti-semites of the world should know that we Jews are strong and don’t run away out of fear.”
Club Z, Executive Director Masha Merkulova: “Yesterday, a horrific shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh left 11 dead and several others injured. Our prayers go out to the families of the victims, and we wish a speedy recovery for those who were injured. This event moved me to write about the dangers of anti-Semitism that we are witnessing today. And as we were tragically reminded yesterday, these dangers can be fatal. Fox News has featured my op-ed, titled “Pittsburgh synagogue shooting shows the horror of anti-Semitism“, on their homepage.
“In this piece, I write about the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting, the death of Ari Fuld, and the recent incidents at the University of Michigan that include refusals to write letters of recommendation for students seeking to study abroad in Israel. Here is an excerpt: ‘Today in the U.S. we find ourselves in a situation where Jews face open discrimination. The shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh is a painful reminder of the darkest manifestations of anti-Semitism that continue to persist today.’ We grieve with Pittsburgh, and we remain committed to fighting anti-Semitism and hate.”
Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs, International President Stan Greenspan and Executive Director Rabbi Andy Shugerman, et al:”We join Jewish organizations and communities across North America and beyond in expressing our grief over the shooting attack yesterday at Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh.Unfortunately, we now know that the victims include Daniel Stein, past president of the men’s club there, as well as several other members of that club. Many of our leaders from the Tri-State Region (comprising the greater Pittsburgh area) learned of the attack during Shabbat morning services for their biennial retreat with leaders from the KIO (Kentucky-Indiana-Ohio) Region.
It is a testament to the brotherhood and the life-affirming principles that underscore FJMC’s mission that the retreat participants comforted each other both by recognizing the shock and pain arising from this tragedy and by continuing to celebrate Shabbat together in part as a tribute to the victims of this attack. Sadly, we at FJMC know that this deadliest act of anti-Semitic violence in American history represents merely the worst example in a rising trend of hatred for Jews and other minorities and marginalized groups in our society. Even worse, early reports now suggest that the perpetrator targeted Tree of Life because the congregation served as a Pittsburgh venue and co-sponsor for National Refugee Shabbat, a program that underscores values at the heart of one of the FJMC’s signature programs, the Yom HaShoah Yellow Candles project.
Over 35 years ago, when FJMC leaders in Boston and Toronto created the Yellow Candle, they did so not just as a vehicle for home observance of Yom HaShoah, but also in order to raise funds needed to secure ransom for Syrian Jewish refugees. Our brothers, now of blessed memory, understood that “Never Again” means that hatred and violence targeting any marginalized people cannot be tolerated anywhere at any time. And now, here in what is supposed to be a safe place, the madness continues. Is it simply hatred? Is it fear of the other? We have to keep asking; we have to keep searching; we have to speak out – on our own behalf as targets of hatred, and on behalf of others who do not have a voice to be heard – so that hopefully, eventually, we will be able to make this kind of madness stop. We therefore re-commit ourselves to honoring the origins of the Yellow Candles program in order to continue advancing lessons from Jewish history and tradition. We must respond to these forces of darkness by shining light into our communities, and we can do that in part by embracing the enduring mission that is at the heart of our Yellow Candles program.”
Hawkes Bay Province Friends of Israel, Chairman John McCormick –-“I write from Waipukurau New Zealand to express sorrow and condolences to the Jewish Community of The USA in particular Pittsburgh for the Shooting dead of 11 and 2 injured plus the 4 policemen wounded in action at the Tree of Life Synagogue. Waipukurau is a small town of 4,000 people in a county of 12,000 country people in a country bigger than the UK in area with a population of only 4,000,000. We woke up to news of the shooting this Sunday morning and the people I talked to at church and around the town today all showed sympathy and concern. So be aware prayers were said here today and will continue to be said. Kia Kaha. (Stand Tall)”
JCC Association of North America –– “The horrific massacre at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh unfolded over the course of Shabbat, which is supposed to be a time of peaceful reflection and rest. Our shock and anger at this heinous crime are juxtaposed with heartbreak for the families of the victims, for the Jewish community of Pittsburgh and for the entire Jewish people. Once again, the ugly face of vicious anti-Semitism has reminded us of the fragility of Jewish life. And once again we stand together as a people across the continent and around the world—this time in mourning. Kol Yisrael areivim zeh bazeh— כל ישראל ערבים זה בזה—all of Israel is responsible for one another. We extend our deepest gratitude to those members of Pittsburgh law enforcement who put themselves in harm’s way to bring about an end to the carnage, and to all of the first responders who rushed toward danger. They are the consummate example of service to their neighbors trapped inside.May the memories of the victims be a blessing. May their families be comforted among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem. And may we stand together as Jews and as Americans in defiance of the oldest hatred.”
Jews for the Preservation of Firearms Ownership — “Countless ethical and substantive errors flood the mass-media reports covering the multiple murders at a synagogue in Pittsburgh. These are being perpetuated by cable news and the major outlets without even a hint of concern or even awareness. The murders, the worst crime possible, are being called “shootings,” an imprecise term that coincidentally describes America’s second most popular participant sport, which reporters detest and otherwise basically censor. Raising the issue of so-called ‘hate crime,’ which reporters are already doing before motive or any substantive details are known is a gross journalistic error. Worse, it invokes an Orwellian deception with no place in a real report. Murder and assault do not get worse if the perpetrator loved, hated or cared nothing for the victim. Journalists know this, or should. The harm done in an attack is the key to proper justice. Thought crime is the stuff of novels, not a free republic. In weeks and months to come we can expect corrupt and ethics-free media to turn this suspect’s face into another anti-hero icon, as they have done so many times before. Giving an accused mass murderer worldwide notoriety adds nothing to the news cycle, debases our culture, encourages copycats, horrifies news consumers, frightens children, doesn’t even sell more papers as it once did and ignores the bedrock principle of innocent until proven guilty.”
New Israel Fund, CEO Daniel Sokatch — We are all trying to process the tragic and horrific events in Pittsburgh yesterday. We’ve been in touch with many of our supporters in the city – a number of whom were still in lockdown in their homes when we spoke with them and some of whom are leaders in the community. They know that we all stand with them. The time for action will come soon. Too much power lies in the hands of those who incite hate, stoke divisions, and dehumanize immigrants. For now, we send our love and support to our sisters and brothers in Pittsburgh.
Tifereth Israel Synagogue (San Diego), President David Ogul: “I want to take a moment to bring you up to speed on where we are in light of the Shabbat massacre at Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – the deadliest known attack on Jews in the history of the United States. In response to this senseless slaughter, Tifereth Israel will be stepping up its security for the foreseeable future. In addition, our security committee, which includes law enforcement professionals, has embarked on mapping out a longer-term strategy. Meanwhile, the San Diego office of the ADL is in contact with the San Diego Police Department to ensure adequate and appropriate security measures are in place. We read this week from Parsha Vayeira, which includes the story about the binding of Isaac – what the Mishnah teaches was the last of 10 trials in which Abraham was tested. Today, our people are again being tested. But rest assured: we will not be intimidated. We will not be disheartened. We will remain strong. We will continue to persevere as we have for our entire history. May God bless you all. May God bless Tifereth Israel Synagogue.”
World Jewish Congress, CEO Robert Singer — A World Jewish Congress delegation led by WJC President Ronald S. Lauder is in Pittsburgh today standing in solidarity with the Jewish community following the horrific deadly shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue on Saturday, that claimed the lives of 11 people. This was the deadliest attack on a Jewish community in the United States in history. President Lauder had been scheduled to speak in Moscow tomorrow, at the Russian Jewish Congress’ second annual International Conference on Combating Antisemitism but canceled his visit in order to join Jewish leaders to show our support and help the community in whatever way we can. He is joined by representatives of WJC North America, the WJC Jewish Diplomatic Corps (Program Department), and senior WJC professional staff.
In Pittsburgh, the delegation took part in an official interfaith gathering and vigil organized by the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh in collaboration with synagogues and Jewish organizations, in conjunction with partners from other faith communities, government leaders and Pittsburgh residents. In the aftermath of the attack, President Lauder said: “The horrific act of terror that took place on Saturday at the Tree of Life Congregation Synagogue in Pittsburgh has left all Jewish communities, both in the US and abroad, in a state of absolute shock. We have long warned about the sharp rise in antisemitism, on both the far-right and the far-left and have prayed that the many incidences that we have witnessed of late, of vandalism and desecration of property, would never end in loss of life.”
“This Shabbat, our worst nightmares came true. Innocent people were killed and wounded for the simple crime of being Jewish. This was an attack specifically targeting the Jewish community, in a deliberate and callous manifestation of antisemitism and hatred, and it should serve as a wake-up call to all Americans that such horror can and has happened here. We must be vigilant in making sure that this never happens again,” President Lauder said.
World Zionist Organization — “The World Zionist Organization wishes to express its shock and grief on behalf of our sisters and brothers who lost their lives in the attack on the “Etz Chaim” Community in Pittsburgh, PA and to extend its heartfelt condolences to the families of the innocent victims, the Jewish Community of Pittsburgh, and the American Jewish community as a whole. The World Zionist Organization views with grave concern the escalation of antisemitic activity against Jewish individuals and communities throughout the Diaspora.This horrific massacre highlights the need to reinforce the activity to confront Antisemitism spearheaded by the World Zionist Organization at the same time as it underlines our sense of unity as a people standing together and our loyalty to that unity. May the memory of the innocent victims remain with us and guide us, may it strengthen our resolve to remain united as a people, and may the bond with the State of Israel remain at the heart of the Jewish people. Our strength lies in our unity, Our might resides in our belief in the Eternal One of Israel. May we find solace in the rebuilding of Zion and Jerusalem.”
Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial, Jerusalem, Chairman Avner Shalev — “Yad Vashem strongly condemns the unprecedented antisemitic attack against the Jewish community of Squirrel Hill, Pittsburgh. In our post-Holocaust global society, there is no room for antisemitism, racism or xenophobia. Yad Vashem deeply identifies with the victims, their families, neighbors and community. We are particularly sensitive to the toxic dangers of antisemitism, in its many forms and contexts, and to its destructive implications – not only for Jews, but for all of civilized society. At Yad Vashem, we have learned, and ardently teach, about the painful truth of the fragility of democratic societies, and the need to perpetually buttress their effective commitment to tolerance, pluralism and human rights. For this very reason, Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center has increased its educational activities devoted to combating contemporary forms of antisemitism. Specifically, the Yad Vashem online course “Antisemitism: From Its Origins to the Present“, which has engaged thousands of people from all over the world, examines two thousand years of antisemitism and its expression in modern day forms of hatred.”
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Preceding culled from news releases. Send yours to editor@sdjewishworld.com