Today marks a somber anniversary – it has been six years since the deadliest attack on the American Jewish community occurred at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. In the tragic event that unfolded in 2018, 11 individuals lost their lives to a horrific act of antisemitic violence. Vice President Kamala Harris released a statement, remembering those who were killed and praising the community for its resilience and courage, including the first responders who faced injuries during the attack. "This unspeakable act — fueled by antisemitic hate — was the deadliest attack on the American Jewish community in our Nation’s history," said Vice President Harris in a statement.
Vice President Harris also noted the recent efforts to build a museum and education center dedicated to the history of antisemitism in America on the site of the synagogue. However, she acknowledged that the remembrance of this day comes at a time when antisemitism is on the rise, here and around the world. In her statement, Harris recalled a stark event earlier this month – the October 7th Hamas terrorist attack against Israel. Working to always ensure the safety of Jewish people is how Vice President Harris framed her administration's efforts, including taking on an administration that has secured record funding for the physical security of nonprofits and faith-based institutions around the country. Harris also shared how throughout her career she has been involved in combatting hate crimes and antisemitism.
Actions taken to address the rise of antisemitism and other forms of hate by Harris's administration include efforts by the Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights, which continues to investigate cases of antisemitism on university campuses. Harris further stated, "Each university must ensure all students and faculty are safe and secure on campus." The Vice President emphasized the need to live free from the danger of gun violence, particularly in worship, education, and community spaces. "To take on the epidemic of gun violence, our administration enacted the most significant gun safety law in nearly 30 years," she said. Additionally, the administration has created the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, with Harris proudly leading the charge.
The Vice President and her husband stand "in solidarity with the survivors of this attack, the families who lost loved ones, and the entire Jewish community," as they remember this painful anniversary. The events evoke a promise from the administration to continue to fight against hate in its many forms, as well as the continued need for both vigilance and action in protecting communities across the nation.
