I lament the violent attack over this past weekend, during which 13 people were shot and 10 were killed. I send my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of these victims and to the entire community of Buffalo.
The USCCB Ad-Hoc Committee Against Racism has worked to bring an awareness to Catholics and others of the ongoing need to fight against the evil and sin of racism, which is a direct attack against the dignity of human life. As we are all made in the image and likeness of God, for any group to be violently targeted because of the color of their skin is an affront to our loving God.
We are all part of “humankind,” and we need to practice being both “human” and “kind,” with a specific emphasis on being kind. Until we stop seeing one another as targets of racial hatred, and instead choose to respect the human dignity of each person, we will continue to suffer the detrimental effects of the evil and sin of racism.
This challenge can be addressed as people of good will continue to work for the common good. What is needed is genuine conversion of hearts and reform of our institutions and society. While these acts of senseless violence are discouraging and challenging, we can find in Christ the strength and the grace necessary to make the journey to racial healing and reconciliation.
As we mourn the loss of life in Buffalo, we remain aware that offenses against the life and dignity of others also occur across the country and in Louisville. As we again confront these realities and commit to action for change, please join me in praying for the people of Buffalo and all communities affected by racial hatred and violence.
Most Reverend Shelton J. Fabre
Archbishop of Louisville
May 16, 2022
