FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 4, 2014n
New York City Commission of Religious Leaders' Statement
on Grand Jury Decision on Eric Garner Death
New York City has a long history of confronting the challenges that arise from its greatest strength – the diversity of its residents, and our cooperation for the common good. Successive waves of immigrants have experienced both initial rejection and gradual acceptance. Minorities have endured discrimination, but have made significant progress in overcoming barriers to full inclusion
We have reached an important juncture in the life of our city. While crime rates are at welcomed lows, stubborn pockets of violence persist in too many parts of New York. We have seen examples of extraordinary cooperation between communities and police, but barriers to trusting relationships remain
We have watched as incidents of mistrust and tension have torn other cities apart. In contrast, we in New York City have historically set the example for peaceful, meaningful, constructive engagement. We know that will continue
That's because New Yorkers — from all walks of life, religion, ethnicities, ages and gender traditionally come together to find real solutions and to move forward as one city
We know that demonstrations can be a constructive part of this process, when they call attention to essential concerns and mobilize individuals and government to act. We all agree that these protests must remain peaceful, for the benefit of our communities, our children, and as an example to all who hold peace dear. Peaceful discourse of this nature will ensure the progress we all hope to achieve
As we move forward we need to work to avoid destructive violence, build trust and create a more just city in which the dignity of each person as made in the image of God is respected and enhanced
All of us deserve to live in a city where we are protected and respected. We know that New Yorkers will join us in working together to build a better, fairer, and more inclusive city for all, just as we always have
As the psalmist prayed, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble . . .God is in the midst of the city." (Ps.46)n
Timothy Michael Cardinal Dolan Rabbi Michael Millern
Archbishop of New York Executive Vice President and CEOn
Jewish Community Relations Counciln
of New York City
Rev. A. R. Bernard, Sr. Most Reverend Nicholas A. DiMarzio
President Bishop of Brooklyn
Council of Churches of the City of New York
Rabbi Joseph Potasnik Rev. Msgr. Kevin Sullivan
Executive Vice President Executive Director, Catholic Charities
New York Board of Rabbis Archdiocese of New York
Most Reverend John O'Hara Rev. Dr. Jimmy Seong G. Limn
Auxiliary Bishop Executive Directorn
Archdiocese of New York Council of Churches of the City of New Yorkn
The Very Reverend James Massa Rev. Gregory C. Chisolm, S.J
Moderator of the Curia and Vicar Pastorn
For the New Evangelization St. Charles Borromeon
Diocese of Brooklyn Archdiocese of New York
Father Carlos M. Rodriguezn
Administratorn
Holy Crossn
Archdiocese of New Yorkn
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