(Kansas City, Missouri, Via GKCWPC – February 16, 2024)
As we come together in the wake of the tragic events at the Super Bowl parade in Kansas City, we appreciate the outpouring of support from around the country. With nearly a million people attending the event, it is impossible not to have a personal connection to those who were traumatized by the senseless violence.
Among the 23 victims of this horrific shooting, we mourn the loss of Lisa Lopez-Galvan, whose life was tragically cut short while she was enjoying the day with her family. Half of the victims were children under the age of 16. While we are grateful that these children are expected to recover physically, we cannot overlook the profound emotional and psychological scars they will carry with them for years to come.
It is deeply troubling that despite heart-wrenching tragedies, our nation remains mired in a cycle of gun violence. Missouri has one of the highest rates of gun deaths in the US, and it is also one of the states with the highest rates of gun ownership. Missouri and Kansas are considered some of the weakest in the county in terms of gun laws. No background check is required, nor is a permit, and there is no ban on assault weapons.
Scores of elected officials, including two governors, mayors, state legislators, and congresspeople, were present at the parade and were forced to flee for their lives when shots rang out. Regrettably, this harrowing experience is unlikely to prompt meaningful change.
The Greater Kansas City Women’s Political Caucus stands in solidarity with the victims of this tragedy and their families. We demand action from our elected officials. If they won’t enact common sense gun laws, we will replace them with people who will.
Together, let us honor the memory of those we have lost by fighting for a safer, more compassionate future for all.
Sincerely,
Laura Loyacono
President, Greater Kansas City Women’s Political Caucus
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