LULAC REMEMBERS THE CHILDREN AND TEACHERS OF UVALDE, TEXAS, ONE YEAR LATER
Nation's Largest and Oldest Latino Civil Rights Organization Honors the Memory of 21 Lives Lost and Demands Gun Law Reforms
May 24, 2023
For more information, contact David Cruz at (818) 689-9991
davidcruz@lulac.org
Washington, DC- Today, the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) joins the Uvalde community and the nation in commemorating the first anniversary of the tragic mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. With heavy hearts, we remember the innocent lives lost and stand in solidarity with their families, who continue to bear the unimaginable burden of grief.
Domingo Garcia, LULAC National President, stated, "Today, we remember the victims of one of the worst mass shootings in a public school in our nation's history. We, along with their loved ones, miss these beautiful children and their devoted teachers, who live in our hearts and memories. LULAC expresses its deepest condolences to their families and wants them to know that we continue fighting for sensible gun reforms on their behalf.
In the wake of this tragedy, LULAC remains a strong advocate for changes in Texas gun culture. Texas urgently needs stronger regulations governing the purchase of semi-automatic military-style firearms and establishing clear guidelines, including raising the age to 21 years to buy them. LULAC calls upon the legislature and the Texas Department of Public Safety to implement a rigorous licensing program for acquiring weapons of mass destruction like AR-15 or AK 47's. Our plan also includes comprehensive criminal mental health and domestic violence background checks and renewal requirements for individuals seeking to acquire this weaponry. These measures are critical steps towards a safer society, as we cannot afford to witness more lives lost to senseless acts of violence like in Uvalde one year ago."
Furthermore, LULAC would like to sincerely thank the countless individuals and organizations who generously contributed to the LULAC Pray for Uvalde Fund. Through their unwavering support, we raised over $1 million to assist the families affected by this tragedy. We proudly announce that LULAC was the first to distribute 100% of the financial assistance to those impacted, ensuring they received immediate support during their time of need.
The overwhelming response from communities across the United States and Puerto Rico has been humbling and inspiring. The outpouring of compassion and solidarity witnessed throughout the LULAC Pray for Uvalde Fund is a testament to the resilience and unity of our nation. This campaign is the most significant fundraising effort in LULAC's 94-year history, demonstrating our collective power when we unite to uplift those in need.
"As we reflect upon the lives lost and the families forever impacted by the Robb Elementary School shooting, let us remember that our work is not yet done," says Robert Tellez, Texas LULAC State Director. "LULAC remains resolute in its pursuit of justice, gun law reforms, and the protection of our communities. We pray our Governor will call a special session to reconsider State Representative Tracy King's attempt to raise the minimum age to purchase 'assault style' rifles from 18 to 21. We ask lawmakers and citizens alike to join us in this crucial fight to ensure a safer and brighter future for all," he adds.
Today, we honor the memory of the innocent children and devoted teachers who tragically lost their lives. Together, let us transform our sorrow into action, building a society where such senseless acts of violence become a thing of the past.
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