For Immediate Release:
July 8, 2016
Contact:
Matthew Nocella, (202) 724-8105
mnocella@dccouncil.us
Grosso Statement on Recent Gun Violence Across the Country
Washington, D.C. – The following is a statement from Councilmember David Grosso (I-At Large) on the recent acts of gun violence in Dallas, TX, St. Paul, MN, and Baton Rouge, LA:
“My heart breaks over the senseless violence in this country that continues to be ignored by our national leaders. My heart breaks over the killings of Alton Sterling, Philando Castile, and the five Dallas police officers, whose lives were cut short without cause. My heart breaks for the family, friends, and communities torn apart by this bloodshed. My heart breaks especially for the children of the victims, some who witnessed firsthand these horrific acts, forced to carry that trauma with them the rest of their lives.
“We have serious questions to reflect on as a city and as a nation. Why is it that in our country shooting another human being is even considered a solution? Why are unarmed African-American men seven times more likely than unarmed white men to be killed by police?
“I cannot stand by, simply offering thoughts and prayers. To say that it does not happen here in the District is simply untrue and ignores the reality faced by our residents. My hope is that the Mayor and the Council can seriously study the Metropolitan Police Department’s policies to determine what improvements can be made to reduce incidences of unnecessary shootings and violence in our city.
“It is critical that we are proactive to ensure all residents of D.C. are treated equally with dignity under the law and to restore the necessary trust between our citizens and those charged with their protection.”