Leggett Issues Statement on Charlottesville; Vigil at Bethesda Church
Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett and the county Human Rights Commission and the Committee on Hate Violence issued this statement Monday evening:
Again we are stunned and outraged at the continuing horrific acts of hate, violence and bigotry thrust upon the victims and members of our nation’s communities, this time in the city of Charlottesville, Virginia. Our condolences and prayers go out to the families and loved ones of the deceased and injured participants and first responders.
Montgomery County stands in solidarity with the Charlottesville community and condemns this senseless attack and inexcusable display of hatred by white supremacist groups. This is a time to unite in healing and we decry hateful attempts to divide our communities. We have experienced hatred here in Montgomery County; and this incident reminds us that hate, unfortunately, exists everywhere. In Montgomery County we will be intentional about doing what we can to insure that our community is free of bigotry, hate and fear.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s words remain true today. “Hate will not drive out darkness only light can do that; Hate will not drive out hate, only love will do that.”
So we call upon all our organizations and institutions, places of business and all residents to recommit to working to help us eliminate discrimination, prejudice, intolerance, bigotry and acts of hate, violence and intimidation to promote goodwill, cooperation and understanding. This is the Montgomery County Way.
Meanwhile, the River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Bethesda had a vigil Sunday night, drawing about 400 people, the Rev. Nancy McDonald Ladd said. That was about 10 times what was expected.
The event drew faith leaders from around the area, she said, including from the Islamic Community Center of Potomac, multiple synagogues, Buddhist practitioners, Episcopalians and members of the United Church of Christ.
“The religious community was out in force to stand for love last night,” she said.
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