As someone who has always been a bit of a Francophile, I was devastated to hear the news of the multiple terrorist attacks on the city of Paris last night. The idea that over 125 people are dead today in the Paris attacks because of these murderous people is just incredible. And it’s not just me mourning the loss. People around the world are showing support.
In New York, One World Trade Center was cast in blue, white and red, ass was San Francisco’s City Hall, the Sydney Opera House and Wembley Stadium in London. The effects of the Paris attacks are reverberating everywhere.
Sydney’s Opera House is lit in a blue, white & red show of solidarity tonight. https://t.co/ELYMl2Seu9 #ParisAttacks pic.twitter.com/LnQCE7KXYF
— The Australian (@australian) November 14, 2015
See One World Trade Center’s 408-ft. spire lit in the colors of the French flag
https://t.co/jsfBeYyDrO pic.twitter.com/VKchPw5Yuv
— TIME.com (@TIME) November 14, 2015
How to help victims of the Paris attacks
Change your Facebook profile photo. Facebook has allowed users to temporarily (or permanently…you decide) add a blue, white, and red filter over their profile photo to show that you stand with France. Go here and click on the “try it now” button.- Use #PorteOuverte if you’re in a position to help. “Porte Ouverte” is a french phrase meaning “open door”. It was used by Parisians soon after the Paris attacks started unfolding to offer shelter for anyone who needed them. People around the world have also started using it to offer safe shelter for French citizens who are stranded by airplane delays or cancellations. France took the unprecedented step at closing its borders shortly after the attacks.
- Use #JeSuisParis. This phrase translated to “I am Paris” is trending now and hopefully is showing Parisians that so many of us around the world are thinking and praying for them. #PrayforParis is also trending.
- Check in with loved ones in Paris. Using Facebook’s “Safety Check” is an easy way to account for anyone you may know that is living in or visiting the affected area. It allows users to let their friends and family know their status after a catastrophic event occurs. Reach out to those you know to offer support and prayers.
Donations to the Red Cross are always accepted though they are NOT seeking donations for this specific event. The French Red Cross announced it has 300 volunteers in Paris working directly with the victims and their families, first responders, and the community. Any donations will go to help the overall good work the Red Cross does in the US and around the world.
I will be praying for the city of Paris, the country of France, and everyone affected by these horrific events. I still vow to take my family to Paris…soon. Vive la France!
