HARRISBURG (Oct. 29, 2018) - The following is a statement from Pennsylvania Bar Association President Charles Eppolito III regarding the shootings at the Tree of Life Congregation Synagogue in Pittsburgh:
"We are heartbroken by the hateful murders of worshippers at the Tree of Life Congregation Synagogue. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of the victims and to everyone in Squirrel Hill and the greater Pittsburgh region who has been shaken by this horrific attack.
Peace should reign throughout our neighborhoods. We are reminded to turn to our Constitution that guarantees freedom of religion and to the laws meant to protect us from hateful speech and actions. Our society can make no room for hate crimes.
We are also reminded that we owe our gratitude to the first responders who bravely take actions to prevent tragedies from growing larger. We thank them for their selfless efforts at the Tree of Life Congregation Synagogue."
Founded in 1895, the Pennsylvania Bar Association strives to promote justice, professional excellence and respect for the law; improve public understanding of the legal system; facilitate access of legal services; and serve the lawyer members of the state's largest organized bar association.