On Friday, November 13, the world took note as a series of coordinated terrorist attacks across Paris claimed the lives of 129 people and injured more than 350. After ISIS took credit for the wave of violence, countries around the globe reacted with support for the victims and swift action against the perpetrators.
British Prime Minister David Cameron spoke out against the attack, condemning them as “the worst act of violence on French soil since World War II.” France promptly launched an aggressive air strike in Raqqa, Syria. Anonymous, the well-known hacktivist group, has also declared war on ISIS.
Stephen Colbert, Trevor Noah, and John Oliver all aired touching tributes for those affected. Meanwhile countries around the globe showed their support by lighting central buildings with the French flag and holding vigils in the street. This isn’t slacktivism — it’s people who long for a peaceful world putting their differences aside to honor the victims of a horrifying tragedy.
It may be disheartening to think that it takes such cataclysmic violence to bring nations together, but the Paris attacks have opened a dialogue about the state of global crisis. There are even talks of the UN Secretary General visiting North Korea, which would be the first time a UN Chief enters the country in 20 years.
Through actions large and small, the global community has made it clear that “Je suis Paris” — which goes a long way to restoring our faith in the human race.
Christ the Redeemer — Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Los Angeles City Hall — Los Angeles, U.S.
The Burj Khalifa — Dubai, UAE
Wembley Arch — London, England
San Francisco City Hall — San Francisco, U.S.
Street Memorial — New York City, U.S.
The Great Peace Bell Dolens Mary — Rovereto, Italy
Street Memorial — Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The Courthouse of Lyon — Lyon, France
Street Memorial — Sydney, Australia
The Brandenburg Gate — Berlin, Germany
Street Memorial — Paris, France
Street Memorial — Tel Aviv, Israel
Old City Walls — Jerusalem, Israel
Street Memorial — Berlin, Germany
The Burj Al Arab Hotel — Dubai, UAE
Street Memorial — Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
San Francisco City Hall — San Francisco, U.S.
Tel Aviv Municipality Civil Government Office — Tel Aviv, Israel
