Statement From Voto Latino Honoring the Lives Lost in Uvalde Massacre

In recognition of the one-year anniversary of the mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, Voto Latino President and CEO María Teresa Kumar issued the following statement:

“One year ago, 19 children and two teachers had their lives stolen in a senseless and preventable massacre. Our hearts go out to the families who lost a cherished loved one that day, and to the many throughout the community who suffered in the wake of the attack.

“The far right will always tell us that we should keep politics out of tragedies, but the Uvalde massacre and so many others are political moments. And since that day, the far right has continued to block the common-sense reforms that would make our children and our communities safer.

“Americans deserve to feel safe in their schools, homes, and neighborhoods. In the face of a years-long, unshaken right wing commitment to blocking common-sense gun safety laws, our only hope for change will come at the ballot box. Many of the individuals who voted in favor of loosening gun laws or have blocked the most basic reforms are up for election this cycle.

“And we recognize the families who have turned their pain and tragedy into action and successfully dealt a blow to the wall of complacency by pushing a Texas House panel to advance a bill raising the minimum age to purchase AR-15-style rifles. Everyday citizens will ultimately change the course of our country and the far right is no match for decency and common sense. Voto Latino is working every day to ensure everyone is empowered to make their voice heard.”

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Voto Latino is a grassroots political organization focused on educating and empowering a new generation of Latinx voters, as well as creating a more robust and inclusive democracy. Through innovative digital campaigns, culturally relevant programs and authentic voices, we shepherd the Latinx community towards the full realization of its political power.