We are horrified, saddened, and enraged at the terrorist attacks that killed and critically injured scores of innocent people in Paris. These attacks, carried out by Islamic extremists, struck at the very core of one of the world’s great cities, with targets including young adults enjoying a concert, families attending a soccer match, and couples dining at cafés. They were an assault on every person who believes in freedom and the dignity of life. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the murders; the third time in ten days they have done so. The attacks occurred less than two weeks after a suspected bomb blew apart a Russian civilian jet, killing 224 people, including 24 children; and less than 72 hours after two bombings in busy Beirut neighborhoods killed more than 40 people. Terrorist attacks also occurred in Baghdad and Nairobi. On Friday night, President Obama said the Paris attacks were “not just on the people of France, but... on all of humanity and the universal values that we share.” 

We believe we have a shared responsibility to eradicate the evil of violent extremism before we have to bury more innocent victims, and we call on the international community and all people of conscience to take needed action. At this time of despair and mourning, it is up to all of us to unite for a better future for our children.