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October 2, 2017 4:37 pm
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After Deadly Las Vegas Mass Shooting, Major American Jewish Groups Express Uniform Shock and Condemnation

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avatar by Barney Breen-Portnoy

Local news coverage of Sunday’s mass shooting in Las Vegas. Photo: Screenshot.

Major American Jewish groups expressed uniform shock and condemnation on Monday following the previous night’s mass shooting at a country music festival in Las Vegas in which at least 58 people were killed and more than 500 were wounded.

“I am deeply saddened by this senseless attack, the deadliest shooting in our nation’s history,” World Jewish Congress President Ronald Lauder stated. “It is simply unconscionable that people anywhere going to enjoy a concert with family or friends should have to be in fear for their very lives. On behalf of world Jewry, I condemn this horrific criminal act. Our hearts and prayers go out to the victims and their families, and to all those who were wounded.”

Anti-Defamation League CEO and National Director Jonathan Greenblatt said, “This is a tragic day for America, and our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. While we are still learning details and do not know the impetus for the killings, one thing is clear: the threat of mass violence against innocent civilians in America has not abated. This threat must be taken seriously.”

“Unfortunately, all too many times we have witnessed the tragic dangers guns in the hands of determined killers or domestic extremists present,” Greenblatt continued. “Across the country in schools, businesses and houses of worship, individuals have used guns to terrorize communities and local institutions. We remember Orlando, Charleston and Newtown and other mass shootings. Just last week, a gunman opened fire at individuals attending church in Tennessee. We firmly believe that one way to limit the power of extremists and reduce violence in our communities is to enact tough, effective gun violence prevention measures.”

B’nai B’rith International President Gary P. Saltzman and CEO Daniel S. Mariaschin said in a joint statement, “B’nai B’rith stands in solidarity with the Las Vegas community and with all those impacted by gun violence around the nation. We mourn the lives lost to this act of depravity and offer condolences to their families. Our thoughts and prayers are also with the hundreds of wounded victims whose healing and rehabilitation has just begun.”

“It is well past time for meaningful, bipartisan gun violence legislation in this country,” Saltzman and Mariaschin noted.

Cheryl Fishbein — chair of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs — said, “As our nation mourns this heartbreaking tragedy, we urge all Americans to stand shoulder to shoulder with their neighbors against acts of senseless violence. It is imperative that we come together to address the underlying causes in the days ahead.”

The American Jewish Committee tweeted, “Absolutely horrific news out of Las Vegas. We send our condolences to the victims and their families.”

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