Statement From Assembly Candidate Marjorie Byrnes (R-C, Caledonia) Following The Squirrel Hill Synagogue Attack

“Today’s attack on the Tree of Life Jewish Synagogue in Pittsburgh, PA is a horrible reminder that evil exists and walks among us. Unbelievably, this heinous violence occurred during morning prayers in a house of worship. We stand in solidarity with our Jewish friends and fellow Americans shaken by the terror that occurred at this Squirrel Hill synagogue. There must be no safe space for anti-Semitic acts like this in our society. Our culture must loudly and unequivocally condemn bigotry and hatred in all its forms.”

“Second, I am grateful for the courage displayed by law enforcement individuals who entered that synagogue at great personal risk. Numerous law enforcement officers were injured in the events that led to stopping this murderous man’s rampage. First responders will carry the weight of what they witnessed for the rest of their days. Prayers of gratitude for their brave service and peace for their hearts are lifted up today.”

“Finally, we may disagree on the root cause of this kind of violence, but we can all affirm that religious adherents should be able to pray unharmed in their churches, mosques and synagogues. Additionally, we can all agree that our children should be safe in their schools. It is past time for America to take action that hardens soft targets like schools and places of worship. In some instances, this hardening will require new legislation or governmental funding, such as hiring and training armed school resource officers. However, many of these steps will not require any additional governmental action. Personal responsibility, vigilance and preparedness will lead many private schools, businesses and places of worship to consider cameras, safety teams, armed individuals, and active shooter drills. Preventing these acts of terror is not something that government alone can do. Every American has a role in ending this bitter violence in our society.”