Friend,

I’m heartbroken for the entire Michigan State community and all of those who were impacted by Monday’s tragedy. And I am praying—hard—for the full recovery of the five injured students and the three families now left with an empty seat at the table and unimaginable grief.

I’d also like to offer my deepest gratitude to the hundreds of law enforcement officers, first responders and healthcare workers who rushed to Lansing and put themselves in harm’s way. There is no doubt your quick work saved lives.

But, as we know all too well, these thoughts and prayers aren’t enough.

It’s unconscionable that we are once again left devastated by another school shooting. Our students deserve to learn without fear, and they should never be traumatized by active shooter drills, false reports, or gunfire at school.

We cannot continue to live like this. That’s why I’m committed to fighting against the gun epidemic in this country every day I’m in Congress. And it’s why I will not stop until there is much-needed change that leads to fewer guns and safer communities.

So please, hold your loved ones close. And then, let’s recommit ourselves to doing everything in our power to protect our children and our communities.

With love,

Haley