statement from janssen evelyn in response to attack at san diego islamic center

“The reality that a sanctuary dedicated to prayer, reflection, and community has once again been violated by fear and violence is difficult to process.

When acts of hate invade spaces meant to bring people together, the harm extends far beyond a single building or city. They shake people’s sense of safety, belonging, and connection to one another. As gun violence continues to touch so many communities across this country, these tragedies remind us how fragile our peace can be and how urgent the work remains to protect one another from hatred, violence, and isolation.

My heart is with the Muslim community in San Diego, including the family of the security guard whose heroic actions prevented further loss of life, and with Muslim families here in Howard County and across the country who are carrying grief, anger, and fear in the aftermath of an incident fueled by hate and intolerance. In moments of such profound pain, we are reminded of how desperately we need community, compassion, and true connection. We owe one another more than words after tragedy strikes. We owe one another the work of building communities where every person feels safe, seen, valued, and free to worship without fear.”