Dear SFC Community,

On Saturday night, five people were killed and dozens of others were injured in an attack on an LGBTQ+ nightclub in Colorado. Once again, in an all-too-familiar scene, we are witnessing an American community being torn apart by gun violence.

While the motive for the attack remains unclear, the LGBTQ+ community has long been subjected to hate violence, with the number of incidents increasing in recent years. In 2016, the mass shooting at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando left scores of people dead, and we continue to see a rise in violence and murder against transgender women, especially transgender women of color.

Places such as Club Q in Colorado Springs, where this weekend’s horrific killings took place, are supposed to be havens where people can gather in a safe environment to socialize and express themselves. To say I am saddened by what took place on Saturday minimizes the anguish and pain evoked by these senseless killings.

Unsettling moments such as this one can retraumatize those who have been the victims of anti-LGBTQ+ hate and violence, and some may find comfort in meeting with another to share feelings. If you are interested in one-on-one counseling, please visit the Office of Health Promotion and Wellness webpage or email [email protected].

If you would like to request prayer, please contact Brother Greg Cellini in the Office of Mission, Ministry & Interfaith Dialogue at [email protected]. Please remember that we are fully committed to supporting and serving all students and employees, no matter their identity or gender expression.

In this incredibly sorrowful moment, let us redouble our efforts to drive out hate. Let us refocus on being agents of peace.

Prayerfully and sorrowfully yours,

Miguel Martinez-Saenz
President
St. Francis College