Content Warning: This email contains language about gun violence.
John —
I’m writing to you today with a message I hoped I’d never have to share: St. Louis has joined an overwhelming list of American cities to endure the horrific trend of gun violence in our schools.
To say that I’m heartbroken doesn’t even begin to capture the pain that I feel for our community. My team and I have been on the ground in St. Louis, working to make sure that those impacted have the information and resources they need.
Yesterday, I spoke with students, parents, teachers, and first responders who were in the building the moment the shots rang out. I saw children — someone’s babies, their loved ones — covered in blood.
One girl was eye-to-eye with the shooter; his gun jammed and it saved her life.
Their stories — the stories of fighting for survival as gunshots ring out around them — are ones that are far too common in our schools and our communities. I’m going to be honest with you, John. Many of us here in St. Louis are not okay right now, and that’s okay.
If you’re seeking mental health support you can speak with a clinician free of charge through the St. Louis Metro Area Mental Health Crisis Line all hours, all days:
By phone: 314-469-6644 or 314-819-8802 for youth; or
Via text by texting BHEARD to 31658.
I’m asking you to please share these resources so that our community knows that these resources are available.
As someone who has run for her life from the bullets of a domestic abuser, and whose vehicle has been shot multiple times, I know how this trauma stays with you. To the survivors at Central Visual and Performing Arts High School, I need you to know that it’s okay to not be okay.
The tragedy at Central Visual and Performing Arts High School marks the 40th school shooting in 2022 — a year already plagued with a record-breaking number of school shootings. Violence that is preventable, unconscionable, and inexcusable. This devastating epidemic of gun violence and the trauma it leaves in its wake must end.
Finally, I want to take a moment to thank all of the first responders, teachers, and staff who bravely and quickly responded to the situation, and who helped get others to safety. Their actions saved lives.
Your Congresswoman loves you,
Cori Bush
