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An open letter from Councillor Darshan Sunger, Chairman of Epping Forest District Council.
On behalf of the residents of Epping Forest, I want to offer my heartfelt condolences and best wishes to everyone affected by the tragedy in the Middle East. Epping Forest is a vibrant community of many faiths and cultures. We have a large Jewish community, many of whom have family and friends in Israel. At this moment, I can only imagine the anguish and fear of our Jewish brothers and sisters.
This is a time for all of us to pull together. On behalf of everyone in the district, I offer some small comfort and support. We are with you in your hour of need.
The events unfolding in Israel and Gaza are in every sense a tragedy. As is so often the case, it is the innocent on all sides who suffer. As families grieve for loved-ones lost in Israel and Gaza, so extended families of all cultures and faiths look on from afar in anguish.
This is a tragedy for the innocents of all sides, and the anguish is felt across the world.
This is a moment where we can make a small difference. Across our different faiths and backgrounds in Epping Forest, Christian, Jewish, Sikh, Muslim or Hindu, we are first and foremost brothers and sisters. In Epping Forest at least, we can show kindness and compassion for each other as we strive for a better world.
Councillors including the Vice-Chairman of Council, Councillor Les Burrows attended a peace vigil with Rabbi Yossi Posen where the Menorah is placed in Epping in December. It was one of many vigils as we stand together across our country and across the world.
Councillor Darshan Sunger
Chairman of Epping Forest District Council
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