Statement from Partnership for New Americans (PANA) in Response to the Attack on the Islamic Center of San Diego
We are heartbroken and terrified for our community following the shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego today which left three community members dead and hundreds traumatized. Our hearts are with everyone who is injured, the families of victims, and the extended community.
According to news reports, San Diego law enforcement has indicated that the shooting is being investigated as a hate crime. We know that the ongoing hateful rhetoric about Islam and Muslims from national political leaders - including as recently as last week - is breeding increased violence. Hate-filled rhetoric doesn’t just stay online or in the halls of Congress – it can have real-world consequences, as our community experienced first-hand today.
The Islamic Center is also home to a school for young children as well as a mosque. As a result of this horrific attack, hundreds of children have been further traumatized today, including family members of PANA’s staff and board, and our community at large.
Today’s shooting was an escalation of ongoing threats against the mosque and school. The school has been forced to close on several occasions due to threats.
We will continue to monitor and share information with the community as it becomes available. We ask everyone grieving with us to direct their support and donations to the Islamic Center of San Diego.We are hoping to have additional information soon on a fund to support the families of the victims.
ICSD Victim & Family Support Fund
https://goodbricks.org/campaign/icsd.org/official-icsd-victim---family-support-fund
About PANA
The Partnership for the Advancement of New Americans (PANA) is a research, public policy, and community organizing hub dedicated to advancing the full economic, social, & civic inclusion of refugees. PANA is based in San Diego.
