The Massachusetts Alliance of Portuguese Speakers (MAPS) strongly condemns the horrific mass shooting that killed five people and injured at least 19 others at a Colorado LGBTQIA+ nightclub on Saturday, November 19.

Our hearts are with the family members, friends, and loved ones of those killed and injured, with the patrons and employees of Club Q, and with the entire LGBTQ community across the country that is reeling from this horrific traumatic attack.

As we mourn the senseless loss of life from another mass shooting, we once again call for common-sense gun laws reform and investments in prevention and services to uproot transphobia, homophobia, misogyny, racism and all forms of hatred and oppression, and to support survivors.

At MAPS, we will continue to do the necessary work to ensure that the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion are present in our communities so that we can collectively nurture a culture where everyone feels safe and welcome.