Press Releases

Today, Representative G. K. Butterfield, Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), issued the following statement in response to the shooting at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church in Charleston, South Carolina:

“I’m deeply saddened to learn of the tragic shooting that took place at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church in Charleston, South Carolina.  Emanuel AME has long stood as a place of refuge in times of distress and comfort in times of sorrow.  It is where congregants joined together to worship, celebrate and find peace.  It is difficult to comprehend that a house of worship known for joy and tolerance could become a scene of hate and tragedy.

“My deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences are with the families of the nine parishioners who lost their lives to cowardly and despicable violence.  Last night’s shooting is inexcusable, senseless and will not be tolerated in our country.  I ask that we come together in prayer for the victims’ families and the entire Charleston community, and hope that the swift pursuit of justice will provide some comfort in this time of unimaginable grief.”   

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Since its establishment in 1971, Members of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) have joined together to empower America’s neglected citizens and address their legislative concerns. For more than 40 years, the CBC has consistently been the voice for people of color and vulnerable communities in Congress and has been committed to utilizing the full Constitutional power and statutory authority of the United States government to ensure that all U.S. citizens have an opportunity to achieve the American Dream. To learn more about the Congressional Black Caucus, visit http://cbc-butterfield.house.gov.

Media inquiries: Candace L. Randle at (202) 593-1331 or Candace.Randle@mail.house.gov