A Response to Nice

For the third time in less than a year, the great nation of France has been struck by a terrorist attack. On July 14th 2016 at 22:40 CEST, a terrorist took the lives of 84 people who were our celebrating the 227th annual Bastille Day, a day that signifies the rebellion against the French Monarchy and the successful fight for a Republic. 84 innocent lives. I can not even begin to express the heartache and anguish I feel.

This attack is another grave reminder how real terrorism is and the threat it poses to our nation. I talk a firm stance against terrorism domestically and abroad. I believe the US has a main goal in fighting terrorism worldwide and ensuring the safety of all the innocent lives that deserve a chance at life.

This event is still being investigated. Though their are reports that is may have been an attack linked to Islamic terrorism, none of those have been confirmed. 

If in the end this was the doing of an Islamic terror group, I ask that we do not bring hate against the Muslim people. Real and true Muslims pose no threat. In fact, they are some of the most protective citizens in the US and many are proudly enlisted and deployed as well as serving as police officers, firefighters, EMTS, teachers and doctors. I remind everyone that Xenophobia and Islamophobia have no place in New York, our country or in the world. The current statistics show that ISIS has killed more Muslims than any other group. 94% of terror attacks (demanded by the FBI), are from non-muslim offenders.  ISIS is not a Muslim group. They are a terror group based on a warped ideology. 

This attack doesn't weaken the EU or the Schengen Area either. Both are vital to the well being of Europe. This terrorist had French citizenship, EU or not. I feel strongly that this event should not hinder the EU.

France has continued to be one of America's closest friends and allies. Without the French, we may have never gotten independence. As New Yorkers, we are reminded of the importance of France everytime we visit New York City and see the great Statue of Liberty.

We must strive for peace without bring fear and hatred into our hearts. 

Je l'espère pour la paix . Je l'espère pour la France. Je l'espère pour le monde.

Liberté, égalité, fraternité