John – 

Four years ago today, my hometown of Orlando, Florida, was devastated and heartbroken after 49 people were murdered and 53 others were wounded during the Pulse nightclub shooting.

That evening should have been a night for Orlando’s LGBTQ community to come together on “Latin Night” and not worry about being judged for who they loved or how they identified, but just enjoy the music and one another. But it remains the worst attack against the LGBTQ community in our country’s history.

What happened four years ago at Pulse must remind us that we can, and we should, be unyielding in our commitment to protect marginalized communities – that we must do everything in our power to keep guns away from those filled with hate. To be clear, guns in the wrong hands kill innocent people.

The tragedy of Pulse is cemented into my heart, my hometown, my district. And we each have the opportunity to address gun violence in November, that’s why I’m teaming up with Brady today. It’s past time Congress take meaningful, bipartisan action to disarm hate and prevent senseless tragedies – action like banning assault weapons and passing universal background checks. And I want to ask you to be in this fight with me because it’s personal, John. 

Brady is fighting to fill Congress and the White House with gun safety champions – and they need you with them. Will you chip in to support Brady’s work, honor the lives of the victims of the Pulse shooting, and help save lives? You can use this link: https://secure.everyaction.com/brady-2020-action

It's not lost on me that, as we're in the midst of Pride Month – a movement born out of protest – our nation is rising up in protest against racism, hatred, and the systemic failure to protect human life. Right now, communities large and small across this country are demanding change from those in power. 

This is not the America that we were created to be – and the vast majority of Americans support the common-sense gun reforms that the House of Representatives passed last year. Ending this epidemic means replacing the politicians who are blocking our progress.

Brady depends on grassroots supporters like you to propel our country forward, John: If you can spare it – no gift is too small – here’s the best link to contribute: https://secure.everyaction.com/brady-2020-action

Today, we remember the 49 people murdered in the early morning hours four years ago. And we promise them that we will honor their memories by fighting for a safer America.

Congresswoman Val Demings