Statement from Bishop Patrick J. McGrath, Diocese of San Jose
June 14, 2016

The tragic events of Orlando are a horrific reminder of the power of hatred and violence.  Unaware as we still are of the motives behind the murderous rampage, the targeting of members of the LGBT community is a wound on our society.

While our first reaction is to lash out with the same degree of hostility, we hear the words of the Lord, calling us to repay even hatred with love.  We cannot become the evil that we detest.

The call within our nation to consider as suspect entire populations of citizens, immigrants or visitors is contrary to what is best in the American people.  We cannot relive the prejudices of the past, nor conjure up new ones in this century. Violence will only beget more violence.  The cycle must be broken.

We join with all who are committed to the common good, rooted in the values of justice, love, peace and tolerance, as we pray for those who lost their lives or their loved ones and who live now in fear because of acts of violence.

ING and Affiliates Stand in Solidarity with LGBTQ Communities Against Hate

We as American Muslims express our deep shock and sorrow over the horrific attack in Orlando, mourn the loss of innocent lives, and extend our sincere condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their loved ones. Our prayers and thoughts go out to all those impacted by this senseless attack, in particular the LGBTQ communities which have been the most impacted by this brutal act. As Muslims, we know all too well what it is like to be members of a targeted community, and we appreciate the long and unwavering support the LGBTQ community has given us. We stand in solidarity with them and categorically reject homophobia and any form of bigotry, hatred, and violence against any individual or group on the basis of race, color, gender, disability, religion, familial status, sexual orientation, and national origin.

All human life is sacred, and all traditions forbid the wanton taking of it. Yet far too many lives continue to be lost due to hatred and bigotry which have no place in our country and our communities. While the motive behind this heinous act is yet to be determined, we will continue our efforts to bring people of all faiths and of no religious faith together to heal, to counter all voices of hate and violence, and to work for interreligious and intercultural understanding.

A crowdfunding campaign has been launched by American Muslims to support the families of the Orlando shooting victims. Click here to donate.