Twice in the past week, our nation has again been shaken by headlines of mass shootings – first at a spa in Atlanta and now at a grocery store in Boulder. And once again, we come together to mourn the senseless loss of life and to try to grapple with the evil behind such vile acts.
My heartfelt sympathy goes to the families and friends who lost loved ones. Their grief is our nation’s grief. Their anguish is our nation’s anguish. I particularly want to honor the brave actions of Boulder Police Officer Eric Talley, who gave his life to protect those in danger.
I renew my call that federal and state lawmakers must address serious societal issues – the level of violence that permeates our culture, the need to protect minorities from hate crimes, the lack of adequate mental health care, and yes, the need for common-sense gun reform.
Let’s make Atlanta and Boulder the reason that we finally unite and do what is needed to make our nation a safer place for all to live.
Sincerely,
Dean
