The Peace and Freedom Party joins all people of goodwill in condemning the senseless acts of violence perpetuated at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and against an African-American man and woman in Jeffersontown, Kentucky.

We see anti-Semitism and racism as part of a pervasive atmosphere of hatred of the “other” including Moslems, Latin American immigrants, and other groups. The current occupant of the White House provokes violence that has deep roots.

The American dream of peace and prosperity is a myth. A college education comes with a promise of lifetime debt, not a productive future. We are the only “advanced” country without a national healthcare system. Workers are increasingly on their own, without a union or even a regular job.

The resulting isolation and insecurity breeds hate, anger, and fear. No wonder the ludicrous statements of a demagogic leader can provoke extreme violent acts.

We can join those who mourn and condemn. But we must redouble our efforts to organize and support all of the working class to strive together for a society in which we have control over our lives and our future.