Opening of the women’s and men’s basketball season. EagleBank Arena, Fairfax, VA. November 6, 2018.
I am very excited about the new basketball season.
But before we start, I want us to come together as a community and remind one another of the values that bind us together.
Our diversity makes us stronger. And when any member of our community suffers, we all do.
Ten days ago, in Pittsburgh, eleven people lost their lives to the worst anti-semitic attack in the history of this country, for no other reason than the faith they practiced.
Sadly, this was not an isolated case. From Charleston, to Charlottesville, to right here in Fairfax, hatred is still alive among us.
But, together, we are stronger than hate.
Together with student and campus leaders I ask all of us to stand as a community against anti-semitism, against hate and bigotry. I ask us to stand with all victims of religious and racial intolerance and violence.
As Dr. King said: “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
Please join us in a moment of silence in remembrance of the Pittsburgh victims.
Thank you.