FROM: The Kootenai County Task Force on Human Relations

On this sad and tragic day in Charleston, S.C., we extend our deepest sympathy, heartfelt care and prayers to the families who lost loved ones and all the residents of Charleston. We hope the grieving families and all the people of Charleston realize that millions of Americans have them in their thoughts and prayers.

This is yet another historical example of a horrific murder of innocent victims by a perpetrator of racial hatred based on the false ideology of the superiority of one race over another race. The deep-seated prejudice and bigotry found within some individuals and extremist groups have resulted in these horrific acts in communities across our country resulting in the deaths and injuries of so many innocent men, women and children over time.

We hope that people of goodwill everywhere will redouble their efforts to stand up against the purveyors of hate in all its manifestations. As the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said: "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."

We hope parents will hug their children tonight and share this message of love from Dr. King with them.

With the Deepest Sympathy for the families in Charleston,

The Kootenai County Task Force on Human Relations Board

Christie Wood, president

Tony Stewart, secretary