This past Saturday, a gunman entered the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, armed with an AR-15-style rifle, and took the lives of 11 individuals. The victims were aged between 54 and 97, including two brothers and a married couple. The shooter, 46-year-old James Harrington, made his hatred clear by shouting anti-Semitic slurs during the attack. His social media presence indicates he harbored white nationalist beliefs; after being apprehended, Harrington reportedly expressed a desire for all Jewish people to die.
If you find yourself overwhelmed with grief, anger, or despair, know that you are not alone. We are witnessing an alarming increase in hate crimes across the nation, and while we should be horrified, it feels all too familiar. The attack is considered the deadliest assault on Jewish individuals in U.S. history, according to the Anti-Defamation League.
As someone with Jewish heritage and a descendant of Holocaust survivors, I have been deeply affected by this tragedy. We often say #NeverAgain, yet here we are facing such horrific acts of violence. This tragedy resonates with everyone, regardless of their background, and it is crucial that we take action to prevent future hate crimes and support those impacted by this heartbreaking event. Here’s a list of ways you can contribute to meaningful change right now. Even the smallest donation can help, and many organizations offer volunteer opportunities and local vigils to participate in.
Support the Anti-Defamation League (ADL)
Founded in 1913, the ADL is committed to “stopping anti-Semitism and defending the Jewish people.” They work with law enforcement and communities to combat hatred. To learn more about donating or joining a vigil for the shooting victims, click here.
Contribute to the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh’s Victims of Terror Fund
This local organization is raising funds to support and rebuild the affected community. The contributions will go towards psychological services, family support, community security, medical expenses, and counseling for those in need. Find out how to help here.
Volunteer with Bend The Arc
Bend The Arc is a progressive movement of Jews from across the country advocating for equity and safety for all. Their website provides information on actions you can take, including participating in local vigils and phone banking for upcoming elections.
Donate or Volunteer with HIAS
Recognizing that many of us come from immigrant backgrounds, HIAS is dedicated to providing support to refugees entering the U.S. Disturbingly, the shooter blamed HIAS for what he viewed as an invasion of “our people.” You can get involved by donating, starting a fundraiser, or joining an action campaign.
Support the Tree of Life Synagogue’s Go Fund Me
Following the attack, a Go Fund Me was established to assist the congregation with building damages and to support survivors and victims’ families. The campaign has raised over $640,000. If you’d like to contribute directly to the synagogue, you can do so here.
Contribute to the “Muslims Unite for Pittsburgh Synagogue” Fund
In a powerful display of solidarity, two Muslim-American organizations, CelebrateMercy and MPower Change, have launched a fundraising campaign to support the shooting victims. They have raised an impressive $125,000 to cover funeral costs, medical bills, and support for the families affected. Donations from all faiths are welcome; find out how to help here.
Make Your Voice Heard by Voting!
We live in a time where hateful rhetoric is prevalent, and it is essential to stand against it. While we can’t vote out the current administration until 2020, there is an opportunity to elect compassionate leaders in the upcoming election. Please, make it a priority to vote on November 6th and encourage your friends and family to do the same. If someone needs a ride to the polls, offer assistance.
In summary, these actions can help counter the rising tide of hate. By donating, volunteering, and voting, we can work together to foster a more compassionate society.
Keyphrase: Pittsburgh synagogue shooting support
Tags: [“home insemination kit”, “home insemination syringe”, “self insemination”]