The Canadian Race Relations Foundation Condemns the Attack on the Jewish community of Pittsburgh
October 29, 2018 – In response to the hate-motivated attack on the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, The Canadian Race Relations Foundation (CRRF) issues the following statement:
“We condemn without hesitation or reservation the murderous attack on the Jewish community of Pittsburgh,” said Rajesh Uttamchandani, Acting Chairperson of the Board, CRRF. “Eleven members of this community, at Sabbath prayer, have been murdered in the name of a hateful ideology. We offer our heartfelt condolences for the lives that have been taken and the families that have been broken. We pray that those wounded in the attack, including the brave first responders, who rushed into danger to bring others out of danger, will be restored to health and returned to their loved ones.”
“Borders are not impregnable boundaries,” said Dr. Lilian Ma, CRRF Executive Director. “The violence that destroyed lives in Pittsburgh cannot, as Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf declared, be permitted to become normal – neither in the United States nor in Canada. Hatred must be opposed before it becomes violent. It starts with speech and often ends up with violence. We urge that everyone living and enjoying the fruits of a civil society be vigilant and continue to fight against hate speech and violence for a better society that embraces inclusion and love for all and that we are one.”
About the Canadian Race Relations Foundation
The purpose of the Canadian Race Relations Foundation is to facilitate throughout Canada the development, sharing and application of knowledge and expertise in order to contribute to the elimination of racism and all forms of racial discrimination in Canadian society. The work of the Foundation is premised on the desire to create and nurture an inclusive society based on equity, social harmony, mutual respect and human dignity. Its underlying principle in addressing racism and racial discrimination emphasizes positive race relations and the promotion of shared Canadian values of human rights and democratic institutions.
For more information
Dr. Lilian Ma, Executive Director 416.441.1900
