Saturday’s shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue left more than just the Jewish people in a state of fear and sadness. Unfortunately, this isn’t the first hate attack or sign of anti-Semitism in the United States. This information isn’t settling but, when tragedy strikes, communities in America and around the world prove to be stronger when they bond together.
The good news is that it’s already happening. Immediately following the news, social groups around the country stood with the Jewish community and within hours, Muslim-American non-profits Celebrate Mercy and MPower Change started a LaunchGood campaign, “Muslims Unite For Pittsburgh Synagogue.” In less than 48 hours they’ve already raised more than $130,000 for the grieving families.
Thousands are helping the Pittsburgh community every minute showing that love and action stop hate. If you want to help but are not sure how here are a few ways to get involved.
Donate to the Tree of Life Synagogue GoFundMe.
Shay Khatiri in Washington D.C. started the fundraiser to help the synagogue with the physical damages to the building, as well as help the survivors and the victims’ families. Khatiri ensures donors “that money is processed by GoFundMe’s nonprofit partner PayPal Giving Fund, and funds are sent directly to the Tree of Life Congregation. GoFundMe is in contact with and supporting the synagogue throughout this process.” In two days the GoFundMe account has already raised $662,000.
Donate to HIAS
Non-profit HIAS (Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society), has been working around the world for more than 130 years protecting refugees who have been forced to flee their homelands, including ethnic, religious, and sexual minorities. Prior to the shooting, Robert Bowers, posted on the social network Gab, “hias likes to bring invaders in that kill our people. I can’t sit by and watch my people get slaughtered. Screw your optics, I’m going in.” In response to Saturday’s attack, the organization said, “Our mission is to stay the course and continue our work. We help people who are in need…We know that there is hate and we know that more must be done about it. One thing everyone can do is stand up to hate speech.” To donate to the organization, click here.
Donate Blood
Vitalant is one of the oldest and largest nonprofit community blood service providers in the nation, and has more than 127 donation centers around the country. They are always accepting donations of all blood types, especially during an emergency. The Pittsburgh Penguins partnered with Vitalant for a blood drive Monday, Oct. 29 but you don’t have to be in Pittsburgh to donate blood. To find a donation center near you click here.
Overwhelming response to #StrongerThanHateBloodDrive. Currently 90-minute wait; please consider scheduling appt later this week: https://t.co/P0IDV16zQc. Thank you Pittsburgh! pic.twitter.com/UxpkgfW1Fe
— Vitalant – Pennsylvania & Ohio (@VitalantPAOH) October 29, 2018
Donate Directly to Tree of Life Synagogue
Though the donations go to other things besides support to the grieving families, donations made here can help with the synagogue’s security, programming, cemetery, facility maintenance, religious school, or auxiliaries. Contributions may be made by sending a check, calling the office, or online through Paypal.
Vote
Many say “don’t get political” or “don’t make tragedies about politics.” But if Americans don’t vote, how will things change? We have the privilege as members of the Free World to vote whenever there is an election. To perform our civic duty and have a working democracy. Election Day is next week and our voices matter. Make your concerns and voice heard Nov. 6 by electing the people you think will protect the rights of all people no matter race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or religious affiliation. To find your polling place, click here.
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