Like all of you, we continue to watch the news today and try desperately—and unsuccessfully—to wrap our heads around the unimaginable and unexplainable tragedy that took place in Uvalde, TX, yesterday morning.
This unfathomable situation—the loss of these innocent lives—has become an all-too-common occurrence.
Nineteen children. Two teachers. In their school. A place that should be a haven safe from harm, a bastion of knowledge and learning, and a common ground for developing friendships and discovering the joys and wonders of the world.
Nineteen children. Two teachers. In Robb Elementary School. That’s how many lives he took. How many more have been touched? Countless may have lost any hope of finding joy in going to school and in getting an education. Countless may never feel safe and in a place where they should feel safest of all.
We can only hope that every person in the United States and around the world plays witness to this tragedy and works to make all schools a safe and joyous space for all learners and all educators. To fail to do so dishonors the memory of 19 children, who will never have the chance to grow up, and two teachers, heroes Irma Garcia and Eva Mireles, who gave their lives to protect their students.
There are no words that can convey the sorrow we feel or soothe the pain of the families who lost loved ones. So let our actions do what words cannot.
Stay safe. Stay connected. Stay strong.