Dear Members of the USF Community,
The violent attacks in Israel over the weekend have increased today. As of this writing, 800 are dead and at least 150 are reported being held hostage. Retaliatory strikes in Palestine today have led to an estimated 687 dead. The warfare shows no signs of abating.
Meanwhile, entire villages in the western part of Afghanistan have been devastated by two earthquakes and several large aftershocks. An estimated 2,000* are dead.
The human suffering occurring right now in the greater Mideast is difficult to comprehend. The impact of these violent and tragic events have shaken us, and shaken the entire world. We are grateful that none of our current students are studying or living in the areas affected, but I know many in our community — students, faculty, staff, and alumni — have strong personal relationships with family, friends, and colleagues who are suffering in Afghanistan, Israel, and Palestine. If you are among them and find you need support, please keep in mind the resources available at USF:
I call your attention to the
vigil for healing, hosted by University Ministry on Wednesday, Oct. 11 beginning at 1 p.m. in the Romero Room on the first floor of Toler Hall. All are welcome to gather to pray for a speedy peace.
Also, students interested in a safe place to process events in Israel and Palestine may contact
Professor Oren Kroll-Zeldin, interim director of the Swig Program in Jewish Studies and Social Justice. He is available to anyone in the USF community who wants to talk, process, debrief, or learn more.
Let us pray for our sisters and brothers in Afghanistan, Israel, and Palestine. Let us pray for the recognition of human dignity, and the promotion of justice, through which true security for all can be advanced. Let us pray for the release of hostages. Let us pray for the reunion of families. Let us pray for lasting peace.
Sincerely,
