FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 7, 2019
CONTACT
Dr. Erica Southerland
202.263.2812
media@cbcfinc.org
WASHINGTON — The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) president and CEO David A. Hinson issued the following statement on the horrific shootings in Dayton, Ohio; El Paso, Texas; Gilroy, California; and South Haven, Mississippi.
“The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) joins the nation in expressing our horror and profound sadness at the unspeakable acts of violence that took at least 34 innocent lives and left more than 50 wounded in Dayton, El Paso, Gilroy, and South Haven. We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends and communities impacted by these terrible tragedies.
“America is at a breaking point over gun violence. We cannot accept this as normal. These senseless acts are often fueled by hatred, racism and bigotry. As we grapple with why mass killings continue to happen in our communities, the effects of gun violence extend well beyond these significant losses. They reflect and affect this country’s political discourse and everyday conversations about civil and human rights.
“Each of us has a responsibility to change environments of hatred by the words we choose and the way we treat one another. Civility matters! We can and must do more to prevent continued mass shootings. This means we must acknowledge that these acts of domestic terrorism pose a danger to the stability of our society.
“CBCF remains committed in our efforts to promote public safety. We join other civil and human rights organizations in supporting legislation that would enact sensible gun control and increase funding for mental health services. As our families, communities, and country reel from these tragedies, we must vow to stand together against gun violence. We must do everything in our power to build a future without fear. Our lives depend on it.”
About the 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 www.cbcfinc.org.
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