LIFT is devastated by the horrific mass shootings that have occurred in California just days apart from one another. The shooting in Half Moon Bay comes just days after the shocking shooting this weekend during celebrations of the Lunar New Year in Monterey Park, California where eleven people were killed and nine more were wounded. In both shootings the victims have been members of the Asian-American community, compounding the fear, grief, and trauma within the APPI community. Our hearts go out to the victims, their loved ones and the close-knit communities who are experiencing such grave and devastating loss and pain.
There have been more mass shootings than days in 2023 with 36 mass shootings in the U.S. in the first 23 days of the new year. All communities should have the right to live without fear, to gather safely, to show up at their workplace without experiencing violence, to celebrate freely and to dance joyfully. We do not have to live like this. Gun violence is an epidemic that continues to create harm, division, and pain. It is also an epidemic that is preventable. Sensible gun control ensures community safety and wellness. We must do better. LIFT is committed to raising our voices on behalf of our families and ensuring that we provide a safe and healing space, filled with love and connection, for our parents and communities.