July 14, 2024 -- The recent events at the presidential political rally on Saturday have left our hearts broken. Violence has no place in our political process. Period. The Parsonage Project unequivocally condemns violence against any candidate, political leader, or their supporters, as do the overwhelming majority of Americans. Our hearts are with the individual who lost their life, their loved ones, and everyone in attendance as they begin to cope with the trauma they experienced.
In the coming weeks, it is necessary that we come together and stand against violence and hate. We must work out our differences peacefully. Our political process and our democracy depend on our ability to remember that we are all citizens of this country. The Parsonage Project joins our fellow U.S. citizens in reiterating our commitment to this ideal. We invite everyone to join us in reaffirming their commitment to a peaceful political process. We join our fellow leaders from diverse backgrounds as they speak out against violence and violent speech publicly and in no uncertain terms.
We also call on people to take care in what information they share or amplify. In situations like this, it is crucial that we don’t let bad actors use this to divide us. Misinformation can spread rapidly, often exacerbating tensions and leading to further discord. As responsible citizens, we must ensure that the information we disseminate is accurate and verified. By doing so, we can prevent the spread of false narratives that may incite more violence or deepen divisions within our society.
We urge media outlets, social media platforms, and individuals to practice due diligence, utilize critical thinking, and act with integrity in their communications. Let us all contribute to a climate of respect and understanding, where differences are debated civilly and constructively.
Furthermore, we must support the efforts of law enforcement and investigative bodies as they work to uncover the truth and uphold justice. It is only through a transparent and thorough investigation that we can bring about the necessary accountability and ensure that such incidents do not recur.
As we navigate these challenging times, let us remember the strength of our democracy lies in our unity and our collective commitment to peaceful discourse. We must continue to uphold the values of respect, empathy, and cooperation, which are the bedrock of our society.
Together, we can turn this moment of tragedy into an opportunity for growth and reaffirm our dedication to a more harmonious and inclusive future. Let us stand united against violence and work tirelessly to build a nation where every voice is heard and every individual feels safe and valued.
May you and yours all be safe in these coming months.
Warmest regards and blessings,
Rev. Ribbons Harris
Executive Director
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