Cranford, NJ—After the mass shooting in Las Vegas that claimed the lives of more than 50 people and injured hundreds, American Atheists president David Silverman made the following statement:
My heart breaks for the victims of this horrendous act of violence and for their families and loved ones. I offer my deepest condolences and support to everyone affected by this devastating tragedy. Our community mourns with you and stands ready to support you as you begin the process of recovery from this senseless act.
To community leaders and organizers, I urge you to ensure that all members of the community are included in the grieving and the response to Sunday’s events. When organizing remembrances, vigils, and memorials, please remember that the atheists and other non-believers in your community are mourning too. While some find comfort in words about “God’s plan” or that victims are “with God,” for others, these words will—at best—ring hollow and—at worst—deepen their grief.
We simply ask that you include your entire community in your response. Reach out to atheist and humanist chaplains or leaders for assistance. Include representatives from as many faith traditions as possible, but I implore you, do not exclude the quarter of Americans who are part of no religion.
If you are organizing an event and need resources to ensure that the entirety of our shared community is included, please contact National Program Director Nick Fish at [email protected]
