Task force: Become allies to victims of hate

It is with the deepest sadness and heavy heart that we once again witness the horrific and unimaginable violence and yet another act of evil that has taken the lives of so many innocent Americans. This act of terrorism and a hate crime by the perpetrator in Orlando, Fla., in an attempt to intimidate us must not succeed.

We express and extend our deepest sympathy, thoughts and prayers to those families that have lost loved ones and to those who have suffered injuries.

We extend our hand of friendship and support to the LGBT community across America which has once again been the victim of a horrible act of violence. We urge all Americans to reject messages of prejudice, bigotry and hate and commit themselves to the values of equality, freedom and justice for all.

We must redouble our efforts to create a society that protects and guarantees the constitutional rights of all our people.

It is essential that we never remain silent in the face of messages of hate or hate crimes; but rather we speak up and become allies to those who become victims of hate.

Only when we all embrace and celebrate one another can we have a true society of love and peace. Let us all join in this noble cause.

Kootenai County Task Force on Human Relations

Board of Directors

Christie Wood

President

Tony Stewart

Secretary