Nov. 3 has been named a Solidarity Shabbat to stand together to support and comfort each other and the people of Pittsburgh. Whether you gather in a synagogue, share a Shabbat meal or join in with the community in some other way, we hope we can all come together this Shabbat. Many Oregon congregations plan special programming during or after Shabbat services. Oregon Jewish Life has compiled a list of congregations in Oregon and Southwest Washington. Explore the list here and check with a synagogue near you for Shabbat plans.
On Oct. 28 our community showed its strength at a community vigil organized by the Oregon Board of Rabbis and the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland. More than 1,000 people came together in the sanctuary of Congregation Beth Israel in Portland. Speakers included many rabbis and other faith leaders as well as Gov. Kate Brown, Sen. Ron Wyden, Rep. Suzanne Bonamici, Mayor Ted Wheeler and Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum. You can view the video – scroll to about minute 40 of the video to see the beginning of the vigil and all the speakers.
“Here in my synagogue we are grieving with the victims in Pittsburgh and their families over the unspeakable loss,” said Sen. Wyden at vigil. “In solidarity there is strength and in our solidarity we join with family and friends and Oregonians of all faiths to make it clear we are never going to cower in fear. We are going to speak out and stand up to hate wherever it is.”
The Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh is collecting funds for their Victims of Terror Fund earmarked for the psychological services, support for families, general services, reconstruction, medical bills for all those involved, as well as counseling and other services that may prove necessary in the future. Locally, Portland’s federation has created a link for donations with 100% going to Pittsburgh. Click here to donate.