Statement
Joint Statement of Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett with Montgomery County Human Rights Commission and the Committee on Hate Violence
For Immediate Release: Monday 14 August
Again we are stunned and outraged at the continuing horrific acts of hate, violence and bigotry thrust upon the victims and members of our nation’s communities, this time in the city of Charlottesville, Virginia. Our condolences and prayers go out to the families and loved ones of the deceased and injured participants and first responders.
Montgomery County stands in solidarity with the Charlottesville community and condemns this senseless attack and inexcusable display of hatred by white supremacist groups. This is a time to unite in healing and we decry hateful attempts to divide our communities. We have experienced hatred here in Montgomery County; and this incident reminds us that hate, unfortunately, exists everywhere. In Montgomery County we will be intentional about doing what we can to insure that our community is free of bigotry, hate and fear.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s words remain true today. “Hate will not drive out darkness only light can do that; Hate will not drive out hate, only love will do that.”
So we call upon all our organizations and institutions, places of business and all residents to recommit to working to help us eliminate discrimination, prejudice, intolerance, bigotry and acts of hate, violence and intimidation to promote goodwill, cooperation and understanding. This is the Montgomery County Way.
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Release ID: 17-012