Members of all different kinds of religions will go every week to their own sanctuary to worship and carry out their traditions. It is their right to practice their religion and be protected within the walls of their altar. However, the violence that’s targeted places of worship showcases how the world still fosters hate for certain religions.

Though the U.S. has the first amendment to protect those who practice religion, it hasn’t stopped hate crimes toward religions such as Judaism and Islam. Anti-Semitism and Islamophobia exist in our society because of negative stereotypes that drive people to believe misconceptions. With this ignorance, it fuels people to believe that Jewish and Muslim members are dangerous and inferior. These feelings become so extreme that it drives them to actively harm others.

Events like the Pittsburgh Synagogue, San Diego Synagogue, and New Zealand Mosque shootings should be a wake-up call to the world that we are far from solving the problem. The world cannot risk lives when it comes to those being targeted for hate.

We need to start with education. We need to educate about the different religions so misconceptions are broken. This can teach those who may not know what Judaism or Islam practice or believe in. Then, the world needs to take a step to protect people from all religions and beliefs. In the end, we must not see a difference, but see that we are all human.