Wednesday night, a severe tragedy hit America’s democracy center – a fatal shooting outside the capital Museum in Washington, DC
We were shocked and frightened by the news of the barbaric terrorists who had the life of two of our Embassy staff in Israel’s Washington and Sara Lirnn Milgrim.
The two young, dedicated members of the Embassy of Israel, just began their trips to diplomacy and public service.
This is not a random act of violence. It targets an accumulation of young diplomats – men and women dedicated to understanding, bridges, and developing cultures and countries. The lives of Yaron and Sara were taken by a short violence, next to a powerful symbol of the Jewish heritage and depression.
We felt the pain of this loss, as the Israelites and as a diplomatmated diplomats representing the country we loved. The death of partners is always personal. But the loss of two seems so large and talking to individuals – full of energy, optimism, and purpose – especially sad. Israeli diplomats and representatives around the world stand on the frontlines of our country’s efforts – Defend the country in their lives.
It is more than a tragedy. It’s a wake up call.
We all witness the rising cost of unexamined hatred – in inflammation, antisemuntic rhetoric.
Toxic anti-Israel seizing not only words – while unfortunately Wednesday night, it was a call to violence leading terrorist attacks to attack.
The bullets that end in Sarah’s life and band were not fired in a vacuum. They are the result of a climate in which hatred is allowed and often ignored. The unchanged launch of a whole people and country are not results. In total history, Jewish people are more familiar with where it can lead – and sadly we are faced with harmful evils once more.
This is our collective responsibility of speaking: enough. We need to stand and speak clearly: Hate and antisemitanism are not accepted here.
Not in Washington.
Not in New England.
Not somehow.
May Sarah Lynn Milgrime’s memory and Yaron Lischinsky be a blessing.
Benny Sharoni is Israel’s Consul General in New England
