Loving God, guide us in all we say and do.

Having previously expressed our concerns of the horrible events of October 7, we want to be equally clear about our concerns for the Palestinian and Muslim Communities.

We are saddened to learn that a 23-year-old Palestinian man, Zacharia Doar, was stabbed after attending a peaceful rally at the Austin capitol. We are thankful Zacharia is alive and recovering. This act of violence against Zacharia was an act of hate – a hate crime.

Hate has to stop. We stand against extremism and violence. Hate crimes against Palestinians, Muslims, and Jews are on the rise. Our neighbors are suffering and their communities are traumatized. In loving unity with them we are asking for respect, understanding, compassion, and prayer.

We believe in the freedom of religion. We believe people should be able to practice their faith tradition and to wear their cultural attire peacefully. People who have visible expressions of their faith should be safe in our community. We believe in the freedom of peaceful protest; we believe in human rights and the sanctity of life.

We cannot remain silent with this violence in our community. We care for all people. We are sorry if our silence has left any of you to feel alone, feel unsupported, or feel unsafe. We are with you. We cherish you and consider you an important part of our community.

Let us remember our humanity. Let us come together to share our love with each other in this difficult time. As an Interfaith organization, we call for an end to this violence and for peaceful resolutions. We are here to cultivate peace and respect, and we invite you into this space of dialogue.

With love,
Interfaith Action of Central Texas

iACT invites all to attend St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church’s United Against Hate: An Interfaith Gathering for Healing, Justice & Peace. The event will be held on Saturday, February 10 from 7:00-8:30PM at 14311 Wells Port Dr, Austin, TX 78728. Open for ALL!