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Pelosi Statement on One-Year Anniversary of Tucson Shooting

January 6, 2012

Contact: Nadeam Elshami/Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today marking the one-year anniversary of the horrific shooting at Congresswoman Gabby Giffords’ “Congress on your Corner” event in Tucson, Arizona, which killed six Americans and wounded 13 others, including the Congresswoman. The anniversary falls on Sunday, January 8:

“One year ago, tragedy struck the streets of Tucson. A horrific shooting shocked an entire nation, taking lives and wounding Americans who had come together in the best spirit of our democratic tradition: to meet their Member of Congress; to make their voices heard; to participate in the political process; to exercise their fundamental right to free expression. A community was shaken, but its will and spirit did not fail; indeed, Tucson responded with unity, with compassion, with a spirit of strength and civility that echoed across the country.

“Few have embodied this spirit more – before the shooting and since – than our dear friend and colleague, Congresswoman Gabby Giffords. She was targeted while doing what she loved most – meeting her constituents, talking to her neighbors, engaging with those she was elected to serve. Her remarkable recovery has been nothing short of inspirational; her willingness and ability to fight on are a true testament to her character – as a person and as a public servant.

“On this solemn anniversary of a senseless act of violence, we remember the victims and continue to grieve alongside their families and loved ones. Yet we also recall the heroes – those who saved lives and protected fellow citizens from gunfire; the first responders who rushed to the scene within minutes; the ordinary Americans who acted with extraordinary courage.

“From their stories, from the lives of those lost, from the perseverance of Congresswoman Giffords and all who survived, let us renew our nation’s strength. Let us unite behind our common principles and values. Let us come together with hope and peace, inspired to take on our greatest challenges and advance our nation’s promise in the days and years to come.”

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Issues:Human Rights