Islamic Center of San Diego Shooting-We Should Learn the Value of Togetherness

We must be
welcoming and kind to
each other. Don't
listen to the voices
of hate, division, 
and normalization.

Hate crimes rising
USCRIF

Sadly, another life has been lost to hate, perhaps intertwined with mental health struggles (or coordination with others.), and these tragedies seem to be occurring with increasing frequency. In some ways, there also appears to be a lack of seriousness when it comes to hate directed toward certain members of society. This is where we must be wise about how we talk about others and how we seem be nonchallant about listening to those who divide us.

For those who have sacrificed to protect freedoms such as freedom of religion, freedom of speech, and the core principles outlined in our Constitution, it is important to remember the value of togetherness and treating all people fairly. The “Allegory of the Clan” used on this site has served as a hypothetical learning story meant to teach about the dangers of this type of hate and division, with the hope of preventing situations like this from happening (To any religion or minority). 

There has not always been an honest conversation about hate or about the casual and passive aggressive ways it can sometimes be tolerated or normalized. Nothing here can be normalized. If it becomes normalized the rot is deep. While these young men committed something horrific and unquestionably wrong, they also exist within a broader social context — one in which hostility, division, and the devaluing of others can sometimes become normalized in certain places and environments.

My message to the next generation is simple: have love and respect for your neighbors. Don't listen to hate or division. Not necessarily in a strictly religious sense, but in a human and spiritual sense. We are all placed on this earth together, and every person has value. When we begin to devalue one another, it can lead to cruelty, violence, and social decay. Too often, people tolerate the mistreatment of others when they believe there is something to gain from it. We should resist that temptation. 

Encourage peace. Encourage understanding, regardless of religion, background, or identity. They all have knowledge which we can learn from. Share a sense of common purpose and humanity so that better decisions can be made in the future. As a society, we should strive to recognize the deeper purpose behind why we exist together as a people: to build communities rooted in dignity, respect, and mutual care. Some will never listen and some will minimize the rights of others. 

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