Press Release
AAUW Executive Director Linda D. Hallman, CAE, issued the following statement:
Staff members at AAUW yesterday participated in President Obama's call for a moment of silence in recognition of the violence that took six lives and injured 20 others in Arizona this weekend. We are saddened that, rather than words, a gun was used as an expression of political dissent, and we appeal to the need for responsibility and dialogue to peacefully resolve problems.
What happened to Rep. Giffords and the many others who found themselves in the line of fire is tragic. We sincerely hope that the gunman is brought to justice and that those injured make a full recovery. We are horrified yet hopeful as Rep. Giffords, a friend to AAUW and a critical voice of support for the Paycheck Fairness Act in the House, fights for her life. Her talent, insight, and dedication to public service are remarkable, and our thoughts go out to her and her family.
AAUW firmly believes that Capitol Hill leadership and staffers are hardworking individuals who under no terms deserve to be the targets of senseless violence just for doing their jobs. Instead, we need to commend their efforts to represent us and recognize the challenges they face every day.
In the days after this tragedy, AAUW hopes for peace, justice, reason, and most of all, healing for everyone who has been touched by this senseless violence.
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The American Association of University Women (AAUW) advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research. Since 1881, AAUW has been one of the nation’s leading voices promoting education and equity for women and girls. AAUW has a nationwide network of more than 100,000 members and donors, 1,000 branches, and 600 college/university institutional partners. Since AAUW's founding 130 years ago, members have examined and taken positions on the fundamental issues of the day — educational, social, economic, and political. AAUW's commitment to educational equity is reflected in its public policy advocacy, community programs, leadership development, conventions and conferences, national partnerships, and international connections.