Today we mourn as a nation with Newtown, Connecticut, and the Sandy Hook Elementary community. My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims of this horrendous tragedy and their families. On Friday, 27 people, including children, had their futures stolen from them as a result of another senseless act of violence. My heart breaks for their loved ones and the community of Newtown. Unfortunately, this is the fourth mass shooting that our Nation has endured in as many years. This tragedy in particular hits home for the millions of parents across America because the victims were elementary school kids--children who expected to be in a safe and secure environment. We must begin to have a meaningful discussion not only on gun control, but about the security of our schools, as well as the access to mental health care services. While one bill won't end all evil actions, Congress must begin to work together to improve the safety of our citizens. I'd like to conclude with honoring our Nation's teachers, those individuals who day in and day out provide for and nurture our children, and in this circumstance, gave their lives. ____________________
Share & report
More from Albio Sires
Palestinian Authority President Abbas has announced that this Friday he will formally seek statehood recognition at the United Nations. While there are obstacles to achieving a lasting and peaceful two- state solution, the PA's attempt to…
Access to affordable higher education is one of the reasons that our country is so great. As someone who lives in the gateway to America, I have seen firsthand the transformational power of education. However, access to higher education is…
As we continue to make our way through the budget process, we must ensure that all funding reductions we make are done in a responsible manner. While I strongly agree that we need to get our deficit under control, we cannot do it in a way…
I would like to thank Chairman Royce, Ranking Member Engel, and all the staff for their support in promoting democratic values around the world and in their efforts to bring this resolution to the floor. I also want to thank my good friend…





