Van Hollen Statement on Unity in Wake of Hateful Incidents

Statement

Maryland Congressman Chris Van Hollen released the following statement on unity in the wake of the recent uptick in hateful incidents in Maryland and across the country:

"America is a nation that values decency and respect, but those ideals have been challenged in recent days by a spate of racist, anti-Semitic, anti-Muslim, misogynistic, and anti-LGBT incidents in Maryland and across the country. The consequences of the hateful rhetoric dominating our politics are deeply disturbing, and I stand with those expressing outrage and solidarity with communities affected.

"We cannot allow ourselves to be torn apart by these expressions of hate. A divided nation cannot live up to our most basic responsibility -- to protect our society's most vulnerable. Divided, we hand those stoking fear for political gain the ugly power they seek. We must stand firmly together to overcome our many pressing challenges, and we must call out hate wherever we see it.

"Words of condemnation by those stoking fear are not enough -- especially when they are contradicted by actions. Donald Trump's selection of Steve Bannon as his top adviser is abhorrent, and I call for his job offer to be rescinded.

"We cannot forget that America's story is rooted in the fight for equality, and we must continue to march forward together toward an ever more perfect union."

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