For Immediate Release
June 9, 2009

Contact: Michael Eagle
(202) 225-7924

Congresswoman Laura Richardson’s Statement on the Shooting Death Today of a Security Guard at the Holocaust Museum in Washington, DC

WASHINGTON ——Congresswoman Laura Richardson made the following statement after learning about the shooting death of Officer Stephen T. Johns that took place today at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, DC.

“Any act of violence is regrettable and intolerable.  This is especially true when an act of violence is rooted in previously disclosed hate.  The Holocaust Museum is a living memorial to the victims of crimes against humanity and the lessons of failure to aggressively address such acts. 

“While the killing of Officer Stephen T. Johns occurred in the nation’s capital, we are reminded that there are still those who seek to use fear and hate to control attitudes and teach violence.  My heart and prayers go out to Officer John’s family today.  This tragedy reminds us that there still exist some people who hate others because they are different.

“As we move forward from today, let us work toward combating evil and hatred at home and abroad so that the horrific events that unfolded today will no longer be a part of our civilized society.”
 
Congresswoman Richardson is a Democrat from California’s 37th Congressional District.  She is a member of the House Committees on Transportation & Infrastructure and Homeland Security.  Her district includes Long Beach, Compton, Carson, Watts, Willowbrooke and Signal Hill.

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