No words can do justice to the shock and horror we all feel towards the slayings of 5/26. Our hearts go out to the two selfless heroes who lost their lives, and to the third who was nearly fatally wounded. All of whom, in a single decisive moment, laid their lives on the line in order to make a stand against hatred and white supremacy in our community.
As for the assailant, he is a monster and a terrorist. His only motive was his toxic hatred, which has caused untold suffering to the families and loved ones of those he so brazenly murdered.
We should take a moment to also remember that he is not a one-off aberration, but rather a member of a hardcore coalition representing only the most repugnant, backward values; which happily resorts to horrifying violence in order to realize those values.
As a community, we cannot let our guard down. Louis Brandeis said that sunlight is the best disinfectant, and the only way to disinfect our community from hate is to bring it to light .
Therefore, in light of this tragic event, the PNWAWC reaffirms its commitment to outing and exposing those elements in our community who would do harm to innocent people because of their race, religion, gender, sexual orientation or ethnicity.
In Solidarity,
The PNWAWC
PS – Please consider making a contribution to one of the fundraising efforts below. All proceeds will go to the families of the heroes of 5/26. We do not have any ties to them, but we are confident in their intent. Thank you.
Muslims Unite for Portland Heroes
Tri-Met Hero Recovery
Girls Who Survived The MAX attack
Tri-Met Heroes
Our statement on Jeremy Christian and what you can do to help the 5/26 heroes
SOURCE: pnwawc.com
