Burlington, VT – Today, Mayor Miro Weinberger called for community-wide support of Burlington’s Palestinian, Muslim, and Arab neighbors and invites Vermonters to join a candle light vigil at the intersection of Pearl and Church Street tonight at 5:30 pm.
Mayor Weinberger made the following statement:
“The terrible, unprovoked attack of three young visitors to Burlington was a shocking violation of the values of this welcoming and inclusive community. These bright, caring young men are good friends to each other, committed to their families, and are loved and valued by many. They deserved to enjoy a peaceful and joyful visit to our city, not the irreparable violence they endured.
The shooting has also shaken many Palestinian, Arab and Muslim Vermonters, by confirming their worst fears, that vitriol, hate and Islamophobia would find them here in Vermont while war continues in the Middle East.
We cannot let the terrible actions of one man define this vibrant and diverse place. I urge Burlingtonians to stand together in support of these victims, their families, and all of our Muslim and Arab neighbors and once again demonstrate the profound kindness and strength of this community. We have an opportunity to do this at tonight’s vigil, and through further actions in the days to come.”
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