For Immediate Release: Monday, April 22, 2019
ROCKVILLE, Md., April 22, 2019—Montgomery County Council President Nancy Navarro made the following statement on behalf of the Council in the wake of the hate-filled terror attacks on three churches, four hotels and other sites in Sri Lanka that left at least 290 people dead, including several Americans, and more than 450 individuals seriously injured on Easter Sunday.
“Our heartfelt sorrow goes out to our community members from Sri Lanka during this unimaginably difficult time of grief. Our hearts break for those who lost their lives and those injured during the brutal terror attacks on a day that's devoted to redemption and renewal. Suicide bombers targeted St. Anthony's Shrine in Colombo, St. Sebastian's Church in Negombo, and Zion Church in Batticaloa during Easter Sunday services, and places of refuge in Colombo including the Cinnamon Grand, the Kingsbury Hotel, the Tropical Inn, and the Shangri-La Hotel were also attacked. We send our deepest condolences to the family members and friends of those who were the senseless targets of these abhorrent suicide bombings aimed at threatening peace and security throughout the world.
“We can't allow our places of worship and refuge to become places of terror and fear. Last year the Council approved $200,000 in grant funding for faith-based communities targeted by hate crimes to enhance security. This funding has been awarded, and we stand ready to provide additional assistance as necessary to ensure that all of our residents are safe and can worship freely in our community. In addition, residents who are in need of counseling services should reach out to the County's Department of Health and Human Services by calling 311 or 240-777-1770."
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Release ID: 19-132