HIAS Responds to Hate in Charlottesville

SILVER SPRING, Md.—HIAS, the global Jewish nonprofit that protects refugees, is horrified by the violence, hatred and loss of life over the weekend in Charlottesville.

In response, HIAS President and CEO Mark Hetfield issued the following statement:

“In the wake of the racist attacks in Charlottesville, we at HIAS are heartbroken. While America has been struggling for over two centuries to live up to its founding ideal of equality for all people, it is clear that we still have a long way to go. Racism, xenophobia and hatred continue to infect this country.

"We condemn in the strongest possible terms the neo-Nazis and white supremacists who came to Charlottesville to demonstrate for hatred, resulting in violence and the loss of innocent life. We urge the President of the United States to do the same.

“HIAS stands with the students, activists, citizens, and faith leaders in Charlottesville who put their lives on the line to stand against bigotry. Through our work for refugees and asylum seekers, HIAS will continue to strive for an America that is welcoming to all, regardless of race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or ethnicity.”

To find a solidarity event in your area, click here.

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