The North American Reform Jewish Movement stands in solidarity as our hearts break for the victims, their families, and the survivors of the Paris attacks. We will never cease our work toward the protection of freedoms, democracy, and pluralism, and the end of terrorism, violence, and hatred, joining our Reform movement colleagues with prayers for peace.
The following is the text of a statement shared today by our friends at the World Union for Progressive Judaism:
The international World Union for Progressive Judaism and the European Union for Progressive Judaism, representing almost 2 million Jews around the globe, expresses its solidarity with the people of France and extends condolences to the families and friends of those who were brutally murdered in Paris on Friday evening.
The sheer horror of such mindless savagery, which sadly increased in recent years, defies every sense of humanity. Those of good faith must unite around the world and support those who are defending our security and strive to defeat those who promote terror and cause such pain.
This is an attack our very freedoms and Judaism’s basic ethics and beliefs. This second round of attacks in Paris in less than a year reminds us that these are not isolated incidents. Pluralism and democracy require respect for the rule of law. Violence and inciting fear are unacceptable tactics for bringing change. We go to stadiums, concert halls, and cafes to celebrate our freedom, not to surrender it.
To honor the memory of all those innocents who have become victims of terror, we must continue to stand up to this growing evil and root out terror and terrorists.
Jewish history teaches us that we dare not ignore these threats and acts of violence. Our wellbeing, and the very institutions that protect our freedoms, are under attack. Let us stand with those who treasure pluralism and protect democracy to bring an end to this cycle of evil.
“And each shall sit under their vine and fig tree, and none shall make them afraid.” -Micah 4:4
Rabbi Daniel Freelander, US, President, WUPJ
Carole Sterling, Canada, Chair, World Union for Progressive Judaism
Stephane Beder, France, President de l'Assemblee du Judaisme Liberal
Leslie Bergman, UK, President, European Union for Progressive Judaism (EUPJ)
Miriam Kramer, UK, Chairman, EUPJ
Dr. Philip Bliss, Australia, WUPJ Advocacy chairman
