Tomorrow I will be in Dallas, Texas for a benefit concert related to the St. Patrick's Day terrorist attacks in the pacific. Musicians from all across the South will be there to perform. A third of the proceeds will go to the Red Cross, another third will aid refugees from the Middle East, while the other third will go to charities helping to promote religious tolerance. This isn't a government function, of course, I'm merely using the bully pulpit of the Governor's office to help spread the word.
Monday I will speak at a mosque in Florida reiterating my statement from earlier and echoing Governor Bessell's statements on the matter.
Once again, I commend the Governor's leadership and condemn violence from all sides. Discrimination and hatred, whether acted out in killings or less violent means, is one of the worst things that happens when people are seen in groups, not as individuals. I ask that every Southerner remember that every person is responsible for their actions, but they are not responsible for actions of those who happen to share the same demographic label as them.
Your efforts are duly noted and much appreciated. I'd like to attend, but I'll be busy making sure that the protest in San Fran doesn't get out of hand and overseeing efforts to keep things safe. Again, thank you.
