CAPAC Chair Statement on Charleston Shooting

Washington, D.C. – Last night, nine individuals were murdered in a shooting at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina. Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-27), Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), released the following statement in reaction to this tragic event:

“I am horrified by the senseless violence that claimed nine lives last night at a historic black church in South Carolina. I commend the authorities for quickly apprehending the suspect, but his arrest is only the beginning of the process of recovery for Charleston and the entire country. We must begin by making clear that the hate which motivated the shooter has no place in our society. Hate crimes are intended to create fear, which is why we must respond with courage. I stand with the community whose unity rings louder than this hateful act, and I am committed to working towards a safer country where houses of worship for all faiths are places of peace and welcome. My heartfelt thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims and everyone affected by this devastating tragedy.”

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The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) is comprised of Members of Congress of Asian and Pacific Islander descent and Members who have a strong dedication to promoting the well-being of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Currently chaired by Congresswoman Judy Chu, CAPAC has been addressing the needs of the AAPI community in all areas of American life since it was founded in 1994.