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House of Representatives
Session of 2017 - 2018 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted:	August 15, 2017 11:58 AM
From:	Representative Brian Sims
To:	All House members
Subject:	Condemning the Recent Terrorist Attack Perpetrated in Charlottesville, Virginia

In the near future, I will be introducing a resolution formally condemning the truly evil acts of self-proclaimed neo-Nazis, white supremacists, and the alt-right that were perpetrated during a white nationalist rally convened over the weekend in Charlottesville, Virginia. Regrettably, both our nation and the world community were forced to observe the results of what happens when the elements of evil, hate, and bigotry are permitted to be cloaked in the invocation of the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States. What began as a purported white nationalist rally organized to protest the City of Charlottesville’s decision to remove a statue of former Confederate General Robert E. Lee from the city’s Emancipation Park quickly devolved into a proving ground for white supremacists, white nationalists, and alt-right activists, to further deepen the racial divide that has worsened since the election of our nation’s Commander-in-Chief, President Donald J. Trump. It was during this rally that non-violent counter protesters were provoked and met with aggression and violence, which culminated in Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe declaring a state of emergency. Sadly the conflict resulted in one fatality and nearly two dozen people were injured after a white nationalist protester drove his vehicle into a crowd of peaceably assembled protesters. Additionally, two Virginia State Police Officers died in a helicopter crash. Our hearts are with those that lost their lives and were injured during the aforementioned events, and may their bravery and sacrifice not go in vain. I personally find it necessary for us as Pennsylvanians -- most especially those of us that are purveyors of love, justice, and equality -- to reinforce the fact that we stand in solidarity with our peace loving neighbors to the south of us, and all who stand against evil, hate, and displays of bigotry. That said, we must lead by example where others have fallen short by expressing a categorical and unequivocal condemnation of the actions perpetrated by those that wish to further divide our great nation. I ask that you please join me as a co-sponsor of this resolution.

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