The Northalsted Business Alliance shares its thoughts and prayers with our LGBTQ+ family in Colorado suffering from yet another senseless gun tragedy. We mourn the five lives lost and stand with those injured and traumatized.
Violent occurrences like the November 19th attack in Colorado often target a specific race, religion or identity, and is frequently fueled by the discriminatory words and actions of political "leaders" and hate groups, including candidates in Colorado who were demonizing the LGBTQ+ community during their midterm election campaigns. As incidents of anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and legislation rise throughout the country, we call for the end to community leaders' irresponsible demonizing of our community and others, and the recognition that such rhetoric is linked to the recent increase in hate crimes.
There have now been 605 mass shootings this year, 37 of which resulted in four or more fatalities (source:Gun Violence Archive). It is time for our Congressional leaders to enact meaningful legislation to stop the violence and create a safer tomorrow for us and coming generations.
Locally, the NBA and its business members continue to work closely with law enforcement and elected leaders to keep the Northalsted district safe for those who work, live and visit here.
Signed,
Northalsted Business Alliance (NBA) Board of Directors