Wisconsin Faith Voices for Justice condemns the violence and hatred that white supremicists brought to Charlottesville, Virginia this weekend. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Heather Heyer, who was killed in an act of terrorism, the families of Virginia state troopers H. Jay Cullen and Berke M.M. Bates, and all those who were injured.
We are deeply disturbed that our President seems to make a moral equivalency between those who spew racist and anti-Semitic hate speech and counterprotesters bringing a message of peace and love. The hate, violence, and terrorism of white supremacists and neo-Nazi groups have been emboldened by his own hate-filled rhetoric toward Muslims, immigrants, the LGBTQ community, and women. Hatred, intolerance, and incitement to violence cannot be allowed to flourish in this country, and we need for our President to be someone who will stand up against the forces of evil.
Above all, we pray for a restoration to peace and sanity, in Charlottesville and across the country. In the face of such brutal and evident inhumanity, we as people of faith will continue striving against divisive rhetoric and violent behavior. And even when dominant voices of our country refuse, we invite all concerned citizens to join in the work for a more just and perfect union. May we all stand together for justice, equality, and in celebration of the rich diversity that has made our country great!