Rep Speier's Statement on El Paso Mass Shooting

Statement

Today, we suffered yet another mass shooting -- the deadliest this year and one of the 10 worst mass shootings in modern US history. At least 20 people were killed and dozens more injured as they shopped and bought groceries in El Paso. Many witnesses said the store was packed with families and excited children stocking up on back-to-school supplies. Initial reports indicate the killings are being investigated as a hate crime, which somehow makes this act of domestic terrorism even more terrible. According to the Gun Violence Archive, it also brings the number of mass shootings so far this year to 250. That is more than the number of days we've had this year.

It is natural, if not easy, to become numb to something that is so horrific yet so commonplace. But we must fight that numbness. We must do what we can to turn this unfathomable crime against humanity into action for good and positive change. We must do this to honor those killed and injured, as well as their loved ones and the community and country that mourns with them.

Most importantly, those of us in positions of leadership must denounce the hatred and division that it is carelessly churned up on a constant basis for callous political and personal gain. We must send a clear message to those who try to take advantage of the destruction of decency that they have wrought. And our message must be resolute: This is not who we are, this is not our America.

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