Post by bot on Jul 17, 2016 18:30:38 GMT -5
Hoyer Remarks at Vigil Marking the One-Month Anniversary of the Orlando Shooting
WASHINGTON, DC – House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) delivered remarks this evening at a vigil held by the LGBT Equality Caucus and House Democrats on the one-month anniversary of the Orlando shooting, calling for action to address gun violence in America:
“I speak for Leader Nancy Pelosi, who is at another memorial for officers that were lost in Dallas as a result of hate.
“Today, we mark the one-month anniversary since the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in our nation’s modern history. Orlando showed us the horrifying power of a single individual to commit unspeakable acts of terror and violence.
“But Orlando also demonstrated the extraordinary power of community and of the American spirit.
“Here in Congress, we need to send a strong message that we do not allow - that we do not allow - that we do not countenance discrimination in America against those who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender.
“When government looks the other way, or even actively facilitates discrimination, it sends a terrible message that LGBT lives are less worthy than others.
“That’s why it was so disturbing that House Republicans held a hearing on this very day that would allow discrimination.
“It is also deeply unsettling that the Republican Party Platform Committee in Cleveland adopted several anti-LGBT planks this week. We would urge them to remember Orlando.
“House Democrats will fight any effort to discriminate against LGBT Americans, and we stand today in solidarity with LGBT people in Orlando and across the nation in reaffirming that all are created equal, equally worthy of ‘life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.’
“And we are going to continue to demand a vote on ‘no-fly, no-buy’ and expanding background checks.
“We believe it is our duty to make America safer.
“The House majority appears shamefully unwilling to take action on even the most broadly supported of reforms.
“Their inaction stands in powerful contrast to the eagerness of ordinary Americans to help, to donate blood and resources, to comfort victims, to denounce terror and violence, and to organize for safer laws, which we saw in the immediate aftermath of the Orlando attack.
“It is that spirit that gives me great hope that the American people will continue to demand change and hold Congress accountable – and that will enact laws that make it harder for tragedies like this one to occur.
“As we remember these 49 victims, let us go from our anger and our sorrow, and turn our energy and determination to this noble cause.
“I now yield to my friend, the Assistant Leader of the House of Representative [Rep.] Jim Clyburn of South Carolina.”