FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 31, 2018
CONTACT
Marc Banks
202.263.2800
Media@CBCFinc.org
WASHINGTON — Dr. Elsie L. Scott, interim president and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF), released the following statement in the aftermath of last week’s fatal shooting of 11 worshippers and the wounding of six others at a synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pa.; the delivery of explosive devices to prominent Democratic figures, including former U.S. Presidents William J. Clinton and Barack Obama, and to a major news network; and the killing of two African Americans by a shooter at a grocery store in Kentucky.
“We offer our deepest sympathy to the victims’ families, friends and survivors impacted by these horrific incidents. We know of the pain and grief that these families and the community at-large are experiencing. We pray for the healing of the affected communities and our country.
Once again we have been confronted with the significant loss of lives due to senseless acts of bias-motivated violence. The events of last week are part of a growing pattern of intolerance, hatred, bigotry and violence that continue to surge across this country and the world, sending a message that it is all right to deny individuals and communities the right to be a part of society.
These tragedies have provided another opportunity for the government to address these systemic problems rather than dismissing the violent acts as the works of a mentally disturbed individual. We need proactive policies and action to bring about radical changes that dismantle systemic barriers and provide safety for us all.
We applaud communities that are taking stands against racism, bigotry and bias, both verbal and physical, and are using their voices and actions to seek ways to heal the country rather than divide us. Together, as policymakers, law enforcement officials, community activists, and individual citizens, we can reduce intolerance and prejudice by acknowledging the problem, addressing the root causes, calling out leaders who are fanning the flames, and making a commitment to take positive action in our homes, on the job, in our communities and through our social media interaction.
We will continue to keep the families, friends, and communities of those slain and wounded in our hearts and prayers.”
ABOUT CBCF
Established in 1976, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) is a non-partisan, nonprofit, public policy, research and educational institute committed to advancing the global black community by developing leaders, informing policy and educating the public. For more information, visit cbcfinc.org.
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