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Jewish community in Westwood holds vigil to remember Pittsburgh synagogue shooting victims
(FOX 11) – This rally was planned in 24 hours. Members of the Jewish community quickly mobilized to join together in solidarity against hate and anti-semitism.
A song of hope filled the air at a vigil in Los Angeles for the victims of the mass shooting at a Pittsburgh synagogue.
“Stop the violence… Stop the hatred.”, said LA Mayor Eric Garcetti.
Jewish himself, the mayor gave an impassioned speech and read aloud the names of the 11 people gunned down during Saturday worship services.
“Rose Mellinger 97-years-old survived the holocaust to be shot and killed Jay Rabinowitz. The brothers Cecil and David Rosenthal.”
After the emotional rally Garcetti broke down during an interview with the media.
“It was one of those days when I realized everything that people came before me overcame. And to have people who were in their 90’s who lived past the holocaust, only to be taken.. It’s a time to speak up.” a tearful Garcetti said.
Emotions ran high during the vigil outside the federal building in Westwood. Flags flown at half staff.
“We must be clear headed and unequivocal in naming and condemning the disease of hatred that has permeated the culture of this nation.” said Rabbi Sharon Brous with Ikar LA.
“I wish I was shocked, unfortunately we need to go back and fight the same fight our parents fought in the 50’s and 60’s.” said Los Angeles resident Miriam Caiden.
While Matthew Friedman, the Director of the Anti-Defamation League of Los Angeles has this to say:
“We will continue to stand against hate in all of its forms and we need to make sure our leadership in our country is also standing against that.”
While there was no mention of the president by name, it was pretty clear that there was a call to stop some of the rhetoric used by the president in recent days and months. Rhetoric they feel has helped fuel the fire of racism and hate.
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Source: Fox 11, Local News
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http://www.foxla.com/news/local-news/jewish-community-in-westwood-holds-vigil-to-remember-pittsburgh-synagogue-shooting-victims