Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) released the following statement on the West Indian American Day parade shooting, in Brooklyn, NY, leaving one person dead and multiple victims injured on Labor Day:
“On behalf of the people of the 9th District and myself, I wish to express my deepest condolences to the families and beloved community members who are traumatized and bereaved at the tragic loss of life, injury, and harm that was witnessed and experienced during our Annual Caribbean Carnival. I am pained and extremely troubled by the horrific shooting that took place during the West Indian American Day Parade in Brooklyn, NY days ago.
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“I, alongside my colleagues, local leadership, community members, and visitors were enjoying a wonderful day of family, friends, and festivities, as we celebrated the many contributions of the Caribbean community, when we were rocked by gun fire and chaos. I’m calling upon those who may have seen the shooter to work with law enforcement officials as they work to apprehend him. I am so thankful to the first responders and medical professionals who secured the area and provided emergency response services for all those affected.
“I truly believe that every American has the right to the pursuit of happiness. Citizens of Brooklyn and all others around this great nation cannot obtain and fully realize that right when they are living in constant fear of becoming victims of gun violence. It’s past time that we fully protect our communities from the scourge of gun violence. We must have a comprehensive approach to eliminate gun violence across this nation, starting with passing common-sense gun legislation that puts an end to gun trafficking and the illicit gun pipeline reaching into underserved and vulnerable communities, improves and elevates mental health services, and fully supports efforts to counter this ongoing and ever-present threat.
“Enough is enough!”
