I am heartbroken.

As an American, an elected state representative, and as a Jew, my heart aches for the people of Israel and the Jewish community around the world.

This is a moment for all free people to unite in one voice and say, “No, we will not allow this barbarism — ever again!”

Some, even among members of the Colorado legislature, argue that these attacks are a result of frustration and despair over the ongoing conflict in the region.

However, that does not justify the targeting of innocent civilians who have nothing to do with the political tensions. It is the duty of every decent human being to reject violence against innocent people, regardless of their faith or beliefs.

We have seen the devastating effects of terrorism in our own country with the attacks on 9/11. The pain and suffering caused by these acts is something that we can never forget or justify. Just as we stood united against terrorism then, we must stand united against it now — no matter where it occurs.

Our country stands for freedom, justice, and equality. We must not waver in our commitment to these values. We must not let terrorist organizations like Hamas manipulate our compassion and understanding for their own twisted agendas. We must not let them manipulate our media and dictate the narrative.

In 1986, when Elie Wiesel received his Nobel Peace Prize he said in his acceptance speech, “I swore never to be silent whenever and wherever human beings endure suffering and humiliation.” Today we must not remain silent.

The sad state of politics has perpetuated this situation. Too few of my friends on the other side of the political aisle have stood up against statements expressing sympathy for Hamas terrorists and condemned those who have said them since many of them are members of their party.

This is not an argument over left or right, this is an argument over right and wrong. I commend those who have put political affiliation aside in calling out those who condone terrorism.

We must condemn this behavior. Making statements after the fact without addressing what was said and done will not suffice. We cannot simply let this fade into distant memory and let the root of these cancerous thoughts persist or they will rise again. Evil is evil and it cannot be tolerated or justified.

As a member of the Colorado House, I call upon my colleagues and leaders across the country to join me in condemning these appalling acts. We must also urge our leaders to take a stand against organizations like Hamas that perpetuate violence and hatred. We must hold them accountable for their actions and not give in to their propaganda.

We stand with Israel, and we stand for peace.

Let us never forget the innocent lives lost and let us never forget that we, as the United States of America, have the power to say enough is enough. We must not let the voices of those who condone terrorism drown out our voices of reason and compassion.

We must fight against evil wherever it may arise, and we must do it together.

Ron Weinberg represents Colorado House District 51. He is a Republican from Loveland.