“We Need Bipartisan Action Now”
WASHINGTON, D.C. – McCain Institute Executive Director Dr. Evelyn Farkas today issued the following statement regarding the violence in Texas where 19 children and two teachers were senselessly murdered:
“We are devastated as more details continue to emerge about the events that unfolded yesterday in Uvalde, Texas. Once again our nation is rocked by the senseless massacre of innocent young lives. All on the heels of a racially-motivated hate crime against the Black community in Buffalo, NY. Time and again we find ourselves in the same place – sending thoughts and prayers coupled with political inaction. Our hearts break for the families who are mourning their loved ones and the innocent lives that were robbed from them. The McCain Institute is committed to identifying solutions and convening national leaders in ways which would help to prevent this type of violence from ever happening again. We simply cannot allow these horrific acts of violence to continue. It’s time to close this dark chapter of American history. We need bipartisan action now.”
With over 198 mass shootings this year alone, and 693 last year, the Uvalde massacre is a horrific reminder that this is an issue that needs to be addressed through new ideas, creative policy measures and the design and implementation of new programmatic efforts. The McCain Institute has a long track record of convening experts to train and identify best-practices and potential solutions to targeted violence including:
- Safeguards relating to firearms purchases and possession
- School safety grant programs
- Programs to bolster state and local capacity for behavioral and mental health professionals
- Civil society programs directed at prevention and healing
- Community-led programs to build resilience and provide trauma-informed care
About the McCain Institute at Arizona State University
Inspired by Senator John S. McCain and his family’s legacy of public service, the McCain Institute is fighting to secure democracy and alliances, defend human rights, protect the vulnerable and advance character-driven leadership, both at home and around the world.
About Arizona State University
Arizona State University has developed a new model for the American research university, creating an institution that is committed to access, excellence and impact. ASU measures itself by those it includes, not by those it excludes. As the prototype for a New American University, ASU pursues research that contributes to the public good, and ASU assumes major responsibility for the economic, social and cultural vitality of the communities that surround it.
