The following opportunity has been shared on behalf of a member or affiliate of the Austin Area African American Behavioral Health Network (4ABHN).

Red Bench banner

“First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out—
    Because I was not a socialist.
Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a trade unionist.

Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Jew.

Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.”
German Pastor Martin Niemöller

Dear Friends,

We grieve with El Paso, Dayton, Gilroy… unfortunately, this list could go on and on. City after city, town after town, is experiencing the effects of unchecked hate and violence. Long ago we asked when will enough be enough? When will something finally happen to stop such atrocities from becoming the norm? What can we do to stop feeling powerless when such horrible things happen?  At times like this, it is difficult not to be discouraged by what seems to be endless violence and perpetual inaction. But our only recourse is to raise our voices. We must refuse to give up on the hope for change.

In the wake of the recent tragedies in El Paso, Dayton and Gilroy, please join iACT for a special Red Bench Conversation Tuesday, August 27 from 6:30-8:30pm at Congregation Beth Israel (3901 Shoal Creek Blvd, Austin, TX 78756) focusing on Safety and Hope in the midst of rising Fear, Hate & Violence. If you would like to attend, please be sure to RSVP here. Invite friends, colleagues and your community for this special Red Bench.

With gratitude,

Simone Talma Flowers
Executive Director
Interfaith Action of Central Texas