At 8:30 p.m. on November 16, students at the University of Pittsburgh held a vigil on the lawn between the Cathedral of Learning and Heinz Chapel for the victims in Paris, Beirut, and Baghdad.
The location between an academic building and a religious one was chosen to reflect upon one's prayers for Paris, and to learn from the horrific attacks. The Facebook page (which was open to all Pitt students) released this introductory statement:
"In light of the horrific attacks in Paris on Friday, we hope to unite students, teachers, family, and friends in order to show our support for the people of France. During the aftermath of 9/11, the citizens of France were some of the first to display our flag, symbolically showing their fidelity. Despite the distance between us, we are not helpless; let's show Paris that their friends across the sea will stand by them during their darkest hour.
It was not only Paris that fell under attack by senseless acts of violence. Beirut, Lebanon and Baghdad, Iraq suffered major attacks by ISIS in the 24 hours preceding the Paris attacks. In the interest of not excluding those devastated by these attacks, we include them in our vigil. We are all one people, and we will unite to mourn those innocent lives lost.
All are welcomed here to pray and to send thoughts to the victims, their families, and to the global community at large. Let us also remember that the acts of a radical few do not encompass the views of the many. Keep the innocents who will suffer unimaginable repercussions based on the color of their skin and their religion in your thoughts and prayers as well.
Nous sommes Paris, et Beirut, et Baghdad."
The event and its corresponding Facebook page were created (or 'hosted') by Alexander Cupo, Helen Ann Lawless, and Matt Sykes, all University of Pittsburgh students/recent graduates. With candles supplied by the Student Government Board, over 860 students were able to participate.
Countless cities around the world have shown their support for France since the attacks by lighting up buildings with the French flag. The City of Pittsburgh has also paid its respects to the victims in Paris, most notably lighting the Gulf Tower.
(Photo credit to Dave DiCello)
Now that French President Francois Hollande has stated that France is at war with terrorism and ISIS, France is preparing to improve public safety and counter terrorism. Meanwhile, an ISIS fighter has stated that, since the attacks on France, Beirut, and Baghdad, the terrorist organization has its sights set on the United States next, most alarmingly Washington.
Until any more political actions can be taken, at least the world stands with France and all other victims. Unity in a time of crisis, it seems, proves to be the only positive aspect of the ISIS attacks.
More on President Hollande's statement here.
