My heart grieves for the victims, survivors, family and friends of the bombings at the Boston Marathon. My sincerest condolences and hopes for all involved.
The bombings are a despicable act, and echoing Obama, I hope the perpetrators “feel the full weight of justice“. Discovering who did this, why, and bringing them to account will take time. Investigations, arrests, arraignment, trial and sentencing are necessarily long term processes. This is as it should be. A rush to judgment is a sure source of future injustice.
But this well-worn insight has not stopped extremists from determining the cause of the bombings on their own. Two examples.
For noted islamophobe Pam Geller at Atlas Shrugs it is a Saudi jihadist prosecuting Islam’s war against the West.
Alternatively, Alex Jones believes the bombings to be a “false flag” government conspiracy, a prelude to seizing our guns and extending the power of the federal government. Jones is a noted conspiracy theorist.
As for myself, I have no idea. Experts in such matters are reportedly trending towards a domestic act of terrorism. But that could change, and I am going to reserve judgment until we know much more.
Still, I worry that the demagoguery of Geller, Jones and their colleagues provides an enabling climate of rhetoric that justifies acts of vengeance against Muslims, government employees, progressives, and others painted as a threat by extremist ideology. I want to add my voice to those calling this fear mongering for what it is, and urging all of us to watch out for acts of harassment or violence against people who had absolutely nothing to do with the horrible events of Monday.
The Guardian has an excellent slideshow and set of videos that document the bombing. I have included a few photos from that slideshow, most of which are sourced by AP, Reuters or Getty images. There is also an excellent interactive graphic that puts the events in larger geographical context.
As you look at the photos, note the actions from first responders and citizens. When the blasts occurred many naturally and appropriately sought shelter. Still, first responders (e.g. police, firefighters, EMT’s, doctors, nurses), race officials, and citizens rushed to the blast sites to help the injured. Others offered food, shelter, communications and transportation for international and out-of-state visitors suddenly stranded in Boston. Those acts of courage and care represents the best of humanity, a moral response that is deeply praiseworthy.
So along with my condolences to everyone harmed yesterday, please accept my deepest gratitude for those helping others in need.
