NCJW Expresses Sadness and Shock at Arizona Shootings
January 10, 2011, Washington, DC — The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) today expressed its deepest sadness and shock at the mass shooting that occurred Saturday in Tucson, AZ. NCJW President Nancy Ratzan released the following statement:
“Members of the National Council of Jewish Women are deeply saddened and shocked by the horrific shootings in Tucson Saturday. We mourn with our nation the senseless murder of US District Judge John Roll, congressional aide Gabe Zimmerman, nine-year-old Christina Green, and of Dorothy Morris, Phyllis Schneck, and Dorwin Stoddard, each of whose lives were precious. We pray for the recovery of those still fighting for life. We feel a particular connection to Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, who, like Judge Roll, dedicated her life to public service and the people of Arizona. An assassination attempt on any public official strikes at the core of our democracy.
“An act of senseless violence has no political meaning for the perpetrator in any ordinary sense. But it causes us to reflect on the value of life and the need for civility in political discourse. Those among us who use hate to advance their political views or increase their television ratings must reflect now on the impact of their statements and casual use of violent imagery. These have no place in the discussion of issues, elections, or government policy.
“From what we do know about the alleged shooter, his history makes clear that our society still has not grappled with how to identify and assist those very few mentally ill persons capable of violence. Nor can we deny that the ready access and availability of firearms, without adequate background checks or waiting periods, contributed to this tragedy, and enabled these murders. These tragic events are a reminder that our nation must do more to prevent gun violence and treat mental illness in all our communities. NCJW will continue to work very hard, as we have in the past, to achieve these goals, even as we mourn those who were killed, and keep those in recovery in our hearts.”
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.
Contact: Emily Alfano
202 296 2588 × 5; emily@ncjwdc.org