Jayapal Condemns Shooting at Congressional Baseball Practice

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal released the following statement in response to the shooting at a congressional baseball practice in Alexandria, Virginia, that left House Whip Steve Scalise, staff and members of the Capitol Police injured:

“I am deeply saddened by this morning’s horrific attack in Alexandria. My thoughts are with Whip Steve Scalise, staff and members of the Capitol Police who were injured. I’d particularly like to thank the Capitol Police for their bravery today, and for putting their lives on the line to protect the U.S. Congress day in and day out.

“There is no place for hate and violence in our communities. We can always disagree and fight for our core beliefs nonviolently – without demagoguery or demonization. Last week, I was joined by colleagues and human rights leaders in denouncing a national anti-Muslim campaign and the rise in violent hate crimes more broadly. Today, joined by colleagues on both sides of the aisle, I again condemn acts of hate and violence in any form and in the strongest possible terms.

“In times like these, we must remember that we can always defeat hate with love, generosity and kindness. We lead our best lives when we put those values into action.”