[1]Mandela Barnes for Wisconsin

Friends,

Yesterday in Waukesha, an annual celebration of festive joy became a scene of fear, shock, and terror.

Words are never easy at a time like this, because they are never enough. They can’t compensate for a loss – the profound tragedy of empty seats around the Thanksgiving table. They can’t easily, if ever, heal the trauma. And they can’t capture the depth of our sorrow, and anger, as children, marching bands, and dancing grandmothers are mowed down in the very heart of communities we love and trust.

Here’s what I know: the Christmas Parade in Waukesha is a moment where communities come together. We cannot allow this senseless act of violence to split us apart. Lives will be forever changed, and we must stand together to help all those who are hurting so that their journey can be a little less daunting.

While there are still important facts we will learn, we must demand justice and accountability. The person of interest in police custody has an extensive criminal record. Not only must he be held accountable, we must understand what institutional failures allowed him to pose a danger to the public.

There has been so much stress and pain this past week. Earlier on Sunday I was in Kenosha, supporting another community that has been torn by violence and grief.

These communities need our support, because community is what makes Wisconsin a place worth fighting for. Our love for this great state is built on trust, respect, and empathy for our neighbors, and the joy of communal celebrations like the Waukesha Christmas Parade. We have to find that trust, respect, and empathy, and bring our communities together in the spirit of healing.

I’ll be in Waukesha this evening for a vigil in honor of the victims and to support all those who have been affected by this tragedy, and I ask that you join me in extending our hearts to the victims and their families, and our gratitude to the first responders and those who mobilized to save others.

Please pray for Wisconsin. We’re thankful for every thought and message of love, and we need them.

Sincerely,

Mandela Barnes
Wisconsin Lieutenant Governor

P.S. For those looking to help, the Waukesha County Community Foundation and United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County have joined together to create the “United for Waukesha Community Fund.” This fund will support the needs of the families impacted from Sunday’s tragic incident at the annual Waukesha Christmas Parade. >>> [link removed]
 


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