Standing in solidarity against violence
Quakers in Britain join the international community in condemning the attack on Manchester Arena.
Quakers are part of The Interfaith Network and endorse this statement:
"Our thoughts and prayers are with those who lost their lives or were injured in last night's terrorist murders at the Manchester Arena, as they are with their families, all others affected and those responding with assistance.
"We deplore and condemn this wanton, brutal and cowardly taking of the lives of young and old.
"Let us stand together to oppose terrorism and the ideologies that promote it.
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An attack on one is an attack on all.
- Inter Faith Network
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"Let us also uphold and strengthen the unity of our society and work to ensure that it is a positive and harmonious one where all children and young people can grow up safely and without fear.
"It is vital that we all – of every age and background – work to build bridges and positive relationships and to enable difficult issues to be addressed and worked on – always seeking to avoid the use of violence to resolve issues.
"We know that each time a terrorist attack occurs, groups within society become the target of abuse or even attack because of terrorist actions which claim, or are perceived by some, as having a link to them. We must stand, likewise, against this. An attack on one is an attack on all.
"We remember at this time, in this context, particularly the many in the Greater Manchester area working for good relations."
Signed,
The Co-Chairs of the Inter Faith Network for the UK and Moderators of the IFN Faith Communities Forum