Persecution Watch

Tag: attacks

  • Sanctuaries in Ash – A report on the burning of non-denominational temples.

    Sanctuaries in Ash – A report on the burning of non-denominational temples.

    Sanctuaries in Ash – A Report on the Burning of Non-Denominational Temples

    In a shocking turn of events, several non-denominational temples across the country have been destroyed by fire, leaving many to wonder what could be driving such senseless acts. The sanctuaries, which were built as places of peace and contemplation for people from all backgrounds, have been reduced to ashes.

    A Growing Concern

    According to a report by the Interfaith Alliance, a total of 12 temples have been burned down since January, with many more experiencing attempted arson attacks. The trend has sparked concerns about the increasing levels of intolerance and hatred towards minority groups.

    “We are deeply saddened by these senseless acts,” said Rabbi David, president of the Interfaith Alliance. “These temples were built to bring people together, not tear them apart. It’s imperative that we stand united against this growing threat.”

    A Pattern Emerges

    An investigation by The Guardian has revealed a disturbing pattern emerging from the destroyed temples. Many of them had been hosting interfaith events or providing services to marginalized communities.

    “The people who were involved in these attacks are trying to send a message that they don’t want these communities included,” said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a professor of religious studies at Columbia University. “But we won’t be silenced. We will continue to stand together and celebrate our diversity.”

    A Call to Action

    In response to the destruction, many faith leaders are calling for unity and understanding.

    “We need to recognize that these attacks are not just about religion, but about human rights,” said Imam Ahmed, a prominent religious leader. “We must come together to create a society where all people can practice their faith freely.”

    Resources

    * Interfaith Alliance: A National Organization for Interfaith Understanding and Cooperation
    * The Guardian: Non-Denominational Temples Burned Down in Arson Attacks Across the US

    Quotes

    * “We will not be silenced. We will continue to stand together and celebrate our diversity.” – Dr. Maria Rodriguez, Professor of Religious Studies at Columbia University
    * “These attacks are not just about religion, but about human rights. We must come together to create a society where all people can practice their faith freely.” – Imam Ahmed, Prominent Religious Leader

  • Soft Violence – The Hidden Attacks No One Sees

    Soft Violence – The Hidden Attacks No One Sees

    Soft Violence: The Hidden Attacks No One Sees

    In the shadows of everyday interactions, a subtle and often overlooked form of aggression lurks—soft violence. Unlike the physical blows that are more easily spotted and addressed, soft violence consists of nuanced, psychological attacks that manipulate and degrade their victims’ emotional and mental stability.

    Understanding Soft Violence

    Soft violence can best be described as a suite of behaviors that aim to silently undermine one’s self-esteem, confidence, and sense of reality. These behaviors include gaslighting, passive-aggression, silent treatment, and persistent criticism. According to renowned psychologist Paula E. Caplan, “Gaslighting produces anxiety, depression, and a variety of self-doubt in the victim.” (Psychology Today October 2019).

    Victims of soft violence often find themselves in a continuous loop of self-doubt and psychological disarray. The subtlety of these attacks makes them difficult to address and leaves many victims questioning the validity of their experiences.

    Common Forms of Soft Violence

    • Gaslighting: This involves making someone doubt their memories or perceptions through outright denial, manipulation, and lying.
    • Passive Aggression: This indirect expression of hostility can manifest as procrastination, feigned incompetence, or deliberate failure to complete tasks.
    • Silent Treatment: Using silence as a weapon to control or punish the victim.
    • Persistent Criticism: Constant, subtle put-downs that erode a person’s self-worth over time.

    The Impact of Soft Violence

    While it may not result in physical scars, soft violence leaves profound psychological impacts. Victims often experience chronic stress, anxiety, and depression. In the words of Dr. Deborah Khoshaba, “The scars that are suffered are deep and often ignored because they lack the physical manifestation.”

    Addressing Soft Violence

    To combat soft violence, awareness must be raised about its existence and consequences. Open dialogues about mental health and emotional abuse are crucial steps to empower victims and hold perpetrators accountable. Staging interventions or seeking professional guidance can provide the necessary support for those entangled in such toxic dynamics.

    “Emotional abuse is just as damaging as physical abuse, though it is often harder to recognize and comes with the excuse that it’s not really that bad.” — Cat Lantigua, Everyday Feminism (2015)

    By spotlighting these hidden attacks, society can foster a more supportive environment for victims, helping them reclaim their power and sense of self-worth.