Dear Wellesley community,
This weekend our nation witnessed a violent attack, this time in a Pittsburgh synagogue, the Tree of Life Congregation. Fueled by anti-Semitic hatred, a gunman took the lives of 11 devoted members of the synagogue as they gathered for Saturday morning services. Our deep and heartfelt condolences go to the families and loved ones of the victims.
As a college community, we forcefully and unequivocally condemn hateful, anti-Semitic acts of violence. In recent days we have witnessed attacks on fellow citizens based on political, racial, cultural, and religious differences. We must stand together as a community to say “no more.” We denounce the inflammatory rhetoric and set of ideas that vilify and target people based on religion, race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, immigration status, or any of the other differences that are part of our community and our nation. We stand in solidarity with the Jewish community in the midst of violence, and we pledge our support to all those who reject acts of hatred and the use of fear to intimidate and marginalize. We recommit ourselves to creating a campus that is welcoming, safe, and justice-seeking.
Please join me this evening for a memorial service of healing and hope at 7 pm in the Multifaith Center in the lower level of Houghton Chapel. We will honor the lives lost as we gather in solidarity with the Jewish community. All are welcome to attend this memorial service for peace.
In the face of hatred and terror, we can find solace and strength from one another.
Sincerely,
Paula A. Johnson
