Asian Pacific American elected officials issued statements Friday in response to the shooting rampage at a suburban Denver movie theater that killed at least 12 and wounded nearly 60 others.
Sen. Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii): “On behalf of the people of the state of Hawaii, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the victims of the Colorado shooting and their families. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time and that all of America mourn your loss and stand ready to help.”
“A civilized society will always be subject to random acts of unspeakable violence, but we must remain vigilant and always remember to treat one another with respect and kindness in the hope that goodwill will negate the kind of evil that led to these horrific killings.”
Rep. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii): “This is heartbreaking news, and I am truly saddened to hear of this deadly and senseless act of violence. It is particularly tragic to hear that young victims were likely involved. My thoughts and condolences go out to the families of all the victims, and I hope to see justice served.”
Rep. Colleen Hanabusa (D-Hawaii): “The events in Colorado again remind us of our need to keep our communities safe by finding a way to intercede in these cycles of violence before they destroy lives. We as a nation will continue to stand by those impacted by the shooting, and I hope they will find comfort and peace in time.”
Rep. Judy Chu (D-El Monte): “Moments like these remind us of how precious and brief our time on earth is. Last night, 12 innocent lives were cut short, and what has been taken from their families cannot be given back. In the difficult days ahead, those families need to know they have the support of each and every American behind them.”
Mark Takano, member of Riverside Community College District Board of Trustees and candidate for Congress: “Like everyone else, I am shocked and dismayed at the tragic shooting that took place last night in Colorado. Our thoughts and prayers today are with the victims, their families and their friends.”
State Sen. Leland Yee (D-San Francisco): “These events are shocking to all of us and sadly remind us of the carnage that is possible when assault weapons get into the wrong hands. It is imperative that we take every step possible to eliminate the types of senseless killings witnessed in Aurora, Colorado.
“We must limit access to weapons that can carry massive rounds of bullets or that can be easily reloaded. SB 249 (authored by Yee) is a step in that direction and should be approved by the Legislature as soon as possible.”