Tree of Life Synagogue: Remember, Reflect, Commemorate 11 Lives Lost
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On October 27, 2018, gunshots were fired on three congregations inside the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, murdering 11 people and devastating the close-knit community of Squirrel Hill. The attack took place during Shabbat morning services as the Tree of Life (or L'Simcha Congregation) along with New Light Congregation and Congregation Dor Hadash were worshipping. Inspired by antisemitic and anti-immigrant views, a white supremacist posted their bigoted thoughts on Gab, a site known as a haven for extremists, and then acted on their words, committing what is described as the deadliest attack on the Jewish community in the U.S.
Since this horrific shooting, the Pittsburgh community has remained staunchly persistent in its commitment to fighting hate, including hosting an annual Eradicate Hate Summit. We should follow their example in our own commitments to #EradicateHate and protect our communities from extremist violence. May the memory of the 11 people murdered in this attack be a blessing:
Joyce Fienberg, 75
Richard Gottfried, 65
Rose Mallinger, 97
Jerry Rabinowitz, 66
Cecil Rosenthal, 59
David Rosenthal, 54
Bernice Simon, 84
Sylvan Simon, 86
Daniel Stein, 71
What You Can Do
In memory of those who lost their lives in the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting, we encourage you to remember, reflect and take action. You can make a meaningful difference in the fight against hate in your own community and beyond.
1. TALK to young people about the consequences of hate. (Here are ways you can talk with young people in the aftermath of hate and some educational resources to help them address and challenge antisemitism).
2. REPORT incidents of antisemitism to ADL and/or local law enforcement.
3. VOLUNTEER with your favorite organization.
4. LEARN how you can help stop the spread of hate online by reporting it directly to social media platforms using our Online Hate and Harassment Safety Guide.
5. MAKE a difference by reaching out to your local ADL office to learn how you can get involved.