Reflecting on the Tragedy in Pittsburgh

Our hearts are breaking for the innocent victims and families who have lost a life or a loved one to senseless acts of violence fueled by hate and intolerance – from Pittsburgh to Louisville and other tragedies that have afflicted our country. The rhetoric of hate and bigotry has been translated into acts of terror so heinous that there are no suitable words to describe the feelings of grief or to soothe the pain and despair. The growing anti-Semitic, anti-Black, anti-immigrant, anti-LGBTQ path of pursuit is appalling and conjures up painful events in our country’s history that we have long worked to overcome. But here we are at this juncture once more and, as we reflect on past horrors and mourn the present circumstances, we must also make a clear decision not to abandon our hope for a better future. During these times, we are reminded of both the strength and the vulnerability of communities, including our own, and that there is still more work to be done to more intentionally build a community that values people from all walks of life and fully embraces the strength of our diversity. In the Greater Washington region, we are committed to Building Thriving Communities by continuing the important work to ensure our neighborhoods are more resilient, equitable, just, and enriching places for all who call our region their home.


How you can help those affected by the Mass shooting in pittsburgh

If you’re looking for ways to help the victims and their families, first responders, or the broader Squirrel Hill community, our friends at The Pittsburgh Foundation have launched a Critical Needs crowdfunding program to support organizations assisting victims of the mass shootings at Tree of Life Synagogue in Squirrel Hill.

The Critical Needs event, under the #LoveIsStronger banner, is underway now and will continue until 11:59 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 3, at www.pittsburghgives.org, the Foundation’s donation portal. People contributing to one or more of eight designated organizations during that period will have their donation matched dollar-for-dollar by the Foundation – up to $150,000.