The Bar Association of San Francisco Statement on Recent Mass Shootings in California

January 25, 2023, San Francisco—The recent California mass shootings at a dance studio in Monterey Park, multiple locations in Half Moon Bay, and a gas station in Oakland leave us once again shaken. Even worse, the shootings come at a moment when many in the Asian American community were just beginning to feel secure again after experiencing a prolonged period of fear and elevated violence and were looking forward to coming together to celebrate the Lunar New Year and ensure a prosperous and hopeful year ahead. The Bar Association of San Francisco joins every American in condemning these acts of senseless violence.

These events are a tragic reminder of the ongoing problem of gun violence in our country. As legal professionals, we are deeply committed to ensuring the safety of all members of our community. We also reaffirm our support for common-sense gun control and will continue to work towards finding solutions to the epidemic of gun violence.

With heavy hearts and grief that has become too familiar, we remember the victims of these shootings and stand in solidarity with those who have been affected and who demand change and accountability. The heroic actions of an unarmed partygoer in Monterey Park and the prompt response of law enforcement likely saved additional lives. But we need meaningful and bold actions by our elected officials now to break the cycle of gun violence that grips our country and holds our communities hostage.

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