STATEMENT - Senate Leader Atkins Denounces Christchurch Mosque Attacks

SACRAMENTO – California Senate President pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins (D-San Diego) issued the following statement in response to yesterday’s terrorist attack on Linwood and Al Noor Mosque worshippers in Christchurch, New Zealand:

“I am heartbroken to learn of the despicable terrorist attack on innocent worshippers at the Linwood Mosque and Al Noor Mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand. There can be no justification for this act of hatred, and no equivocation in our condemning of it. We each have a responsibility to stand against hatred, especially those of us who have been entrusted with public office or other leadership positions. Our public discourse has consequences, and we all must be mindful not to provoke irrational fear or hatred of our brothers and sisters who look, love, or worship differently than us. I mourn in solidarity with the Christchurch community and send my deepest condolences to the survivors, families and loved ones of those we lost.”

In Spanish

###

Toni G. Atkins is President pro Tempore of the California Senate. Having previously served as Speaker of the California Assembly, she began her tenure in the Senate in 2016. As Senator for District 39, she represents the cities of San Diego, Coronado, Del Mar and Solana Beach. Website of President pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins: www.senate.ca.gov/Atkins