Dear Friends,

We mourn for the victims of the Orlando shooting -- an act of terrorism and hate here in America. We mourn for their families and wish a full recovery to all who are now fighting for their lives.

Hadassah stands in sympathy with the LGBTQ community in Orlando, the United States, and around the world as it grieves.

For many in the Jewish community, tonight brings an end to the celebration of Shavuot. This holiday represents a rejuvenation and a rebuilding. As we face the worst mass shooting in American history, we reflect on Jewish laws, particularly those commanding that we save lives, that we pursue justice, that we not stand idly by.

Hadassah has long been a strong supporter of strict legislative gun control initiatives in the United States. Current laws do not go far enough, nor are enforced rigorously enough, to help prevent gun violence. This weekend's actions once again make clear that all interests must unite to ban assault weapons.

Terror knows no borders. This act of hate touches all of us. No one can afford to stand silent in the face of hate, especially hate targeted against individuals based on their sexual orientation, race, or religion.

Hadassah urges legislators at all levels to enact stronger gun control to protect our citizens, our communities and our nation.

B'Shalom,

Ellen Hershkin
National President

PS: Please join Hadassah on Facebook and Twitter to speak out against hate and terror and to voice support for stronger gun control legislation and a ban on assault weapons.