I am usually so proud to call the Pacific Northwest home. Here on the upper left coast we are for the most part an eclectic, inclusive community of people who inherently understand that the true greatness of this country can be discovered in the diversity of it’s people. However, even here I recognize that we are nowhere close to being immune to hate and small-mindedness, particularly now that the forces of evil have been energized by His Royal Orangeness.
Last night at approximately 2 a.m. the Islamic Center of the Eastside in Bellevue, WA was destroyed in an apparent arson. Thankfully there has already been an arrest in the case, but that doesn’t change the fact that the building appears to be a total loss. A LaunchGood page has been started to raise money to help rebuild. Please consider donating (link below). We must send a message to the forces of bigotry, racism, and xenophobia that as true Americans we will not back down from their hatred, but rather we will fight for the inclusive society that is the bedrock of our way of life.
UPDATE: As mentioned in the comments below, it appears that this might not be a hate crime, but rather the work of a mentally unstable individual. I still believe strongly that an overwhelming outpouring of support towards rebuilding sends a powerful message to those that would applaud such an act (and unfortunately I know they are out there as this faith center has been the victim of vandalism on multiple occasions).
Click here to donate to help rebuild the Islamic Center of the Eastside in Bellevue, WA.