June 12, 2016

Congresswoman Lee Mourns Orlando Tragedy

Oakland, CA - Congresswoman Barbara Lee released this statement following the tragedy in Orlando:

“Today, our nation awoke to horrific news. The attack against Pulse nightclub is an attack on the LGBT community, the city of Orlando, and our country.  The senseless violence is undoubtedly an act of hatred and terrorism. 

My thoughts and prayers are with the families of those lost and I pray for a speedy recovery for those injured. Quite simply the senselessness of this tragedy defies explanation.

This tragedy should call our nation‎ to greater action to prevent dangerous individuals from obtaining and using firearms.

Despite repeated Democratic efforts to close a glaring loophole that allows individuals on the Homeland Security Department's No Fly List‎ to purchase weapons, Republicans have blocked this common sense fix at every turn.

As Members‎ of Congress, we have responsibility to act to prevent dangerous individuals from obtaining weapons, including assault-style weapons.

Along with our entire nation, the 13th Congressional District stands with the people of Orlando during this very difficult time."

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Congresswoman Lee is a member of the Appropriations and Budget Committees, the Steering and Policy Committee, is a Senior Democratic Whip, former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and co-chair of the Progressive Caucus. She serves as chair of the Whip’s Task Force on Poverty and Opportunity.