Humanity in the face of terrorism
EDITORIAL: WHAT OTHERS THINK
Out of the grief and shock that followed Monday’s barbaric attack on a Manchester concert came acts of humanity that penetrated the darkness that is terrorism.
The attack took the lives of 22 people, including an eight-yearold girl. Fifty-nine people were injured in the suicide bombing that shook Manchester Arena as people were leaving a concert by U.S. pop star Ariana Grande.
It was the worst terror attack in the history of Manchester and northern England. And the worst in Britain since 2005, when 52 people died, along with four assailants, in attacks on London’s transit system.
The improvised explosive device was set off near an exit of the venue in what can only be seen as a deliberate decision to inflict maximum carnage.
As the head teacher at the school of one of the victims said, “The thought that anyone could go out to a concert and not come home is heartbreaking.”
As frantic families searched for their loved ones, Manchester residents reached out on social media to open their homes, offer a place to charge phones, provide tea, biscuits, hot soup or a place to sleep.
One local councillor tweeted: “Mancunians opening their homes to those stranded, and businesses offering free rides. This is the Manchester I love.”
Taxi drivers turned off their meters to help people escape the area. One put a “Free taxi if needed” sign on his cab moments after the attack. The morning after, lines formed outside blood donor centres in Manchester, answering a plea from local officials.
British Prime Minister Theresa May called the bombing a “sickening act” and did not mince words: “This attack stands out for its appalling, sickening cowardice, deliberately targeting innocent, defenceless children and young people who should have been enjoying one of the most memorable nights of their lives.”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was “devastated” by news of the “innocent victims who were killed or injured . . . many of them far too young.” U.S. President Donald Trump condemned the “evil losers” behind the attack. World leaders were united in their condemnation.
Nations and leaders can learn from Mancunians. They should stand together, and act together, as citizens try to help those struggling to deal with these murders. Humanity should define us in a resolve to protect innocent life.
We cannot cede to inhumanity. Terrorism aims to spread hatred and breed division. Solidarity, of neighbours and of nations, defeats at least some of its aims. But from leaders, effective solidarity must go beyond words of condolence.