We mourn any loss of life to political violence. It is abhorrent and has no place in our country. At the same time, we must recognize that Charlie Kirk spent his career spreading anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric that put many in our community at risk. His words fueled harassment, threats, and fear for queer and transgender people.We also need to be honest about the role of guns in this violence. Hate becomes deadly when paired with easy access to firearms. The solution is not more weapons but reasonable gun regulation that protects us all.We denounce the harm caused both by political violence and by rhetoric like his, and we recommit ourselves to the fight for a safer and more equal future.
Quote from Kristen Browde, President of the Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus:
Political violence, for any reason, is wrong.
Gun violence, for any reason, is wrong.
Spending your life, inciting violence, demonizing political opponents?
Attacking those who are different?
Every bit as wrong. And when violence follows such actions?
One can’t be shocked. All you can do is recommit yourself to fight against it.