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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Another school shooting; Senate inaction on gun safety measures continues

May 8, 2019, Washington, DC – The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) today expressed disbelief that Congress has still not responded to horrific shootings in a dignified and productive way—by passing stricter gun laws. NCJW CEO Nancy K. Kaufman released the following statement:

“The latest school shooting mere miles from the site of Columbine in Colorado, and twenty years later, is as horrific as any. The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) grieves with the families, friends, and survivors of the Denver community who experienced yet another tragic school shooting.

“The senseless shooting at STEM Schools Highland Ranch community, like all the other mass shootings, was characterized by terror, fear, panic, and inconsolable loss. We cannot, must not, become inured to the utter failure of public policy these shootings represent. We don’t yet know the motive behind the latest event. What we do know is that our gun-saturated culture is ultimately the proximate cause. And whether fueled by hate or some other motive, we also know that unfettered access to firearms leads to deadly consequences.

“As it is increasingly impossible to safely go to school, see a movie, or worship, our lawmakers have an opportunity to make our communities safer. The US House of Representatives passed two gun safety measures, yet Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell refuses to bring them to the US Senate floor for a vote. The 90,000 members and supporters of NCJW will not stop until the Senate considers the House-passed measures, and our lawmakers fully and completely prioritize sensible gun policy. All of our lives are at stake.”

The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. More information on Facebook and on Twitter at @NCJW.