The neo-Nazi led and racist fueled violence rally in Charlottesville, VA is a shocking act of terror. But, this is nothing we have not seen in our country’s history before. Torches carried by the terror group mirror KKK and Nazi rallies that have occurred across our country, dating back to the 19th century.

Those who would trample on the rights of others in the name of racism and bigotry are not afraid to use violence and in this case, kill someone and injure dozens of others by driving a car into a crowd of counter-protestors.

The response by President Trump is a slap in the face to the life lost and the millions living in fear of similar hate-fueled attacks across this country.

The 450,000 healthcare workers of 1199SEIU condemn in the strongest language possible, the racist violence in Charlottesville. We recognize this for what it is, and the context in which it took place. This wasn’t an act of freedom of speech, but a direct hate-fueled attack led by violent actions. We mourn the senseless loss of Heather Heyer, and pray for the quick recovery of all those injured.

We believe in fighting hate with love, and will continue to live and act by that core value of our union.