The Buzz: Tree of Life – Tragedy Strikes

It pains me to write this week’s Buzz article. This is not a story of inclusion or progress in our country, but instead a reminder of the hate that still exists and the impact it has upon people with marginalized identities. It is a divisive time to be a resident in this country, and for underrepresented individuals with varying beliefs, it has proven dangerous in many instances. Until we decide, as a country, that we will no longer allow marginalized groups to be subject to negative and violent treatment, people will continue to suffer solely based on the identities they hold. My question: How can we reach a place that allows for difference without danger?

Yet another mass shooting has left a community in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania saddened and mourning. Almost a week ago today, 46-year-old gunman, Robert Bowers marched into the Tree of Life synagogue, yelled “All Jews must die!” and opened fire on those exercising their Jewish faith. Bowers has since been charged and taken into custody, but the healing process for the victims’ loved ones, the place of worship, and the larger community has just begun. Fueled by anti-Semitic beliefs, another senseless incident left eleven lives lost simply due to their faith.

Police reported that Bowers had repeatedly expressed anti-Semitic thoughts online prior to murdering these innocent people. I highlight this point because this is a familiar story following a mass shooting: during research into an assailant’s past, expression of negative views or disdain for a group is uncovered (either on social media, or through friends and colleagues) as neglected writing on the wall. In isolation, this type of message is alarming to see or hear, especially if you know the individual personally. But at the societal level, I believe that people who use the internet to engage in hate speech towards groups are empowered by others online. When their thoughts go unchallenged, these individuals are more likely to perpetrate the types of horrific events that seem to be reoccurring in the media.

The number of innocent people that have lost their lives because of the heinous decisions of others is gut-wrenching. No individual should have their life stripped from them due to the beliefs of another. We must realize that thoughts are a gateway to actions, and these actions ultimately create the reality in which we live. Therefore, we must be vigilant in challenging rhetoric and practices that are at odds with inclusion. We cannot afford to normalize hate or perspectives (whether on social media, in the workplace, or in our families) that marginalize groups of people. We all have a role in creating environments—and ultimately, a world—that is safe and equitable for all.