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Aug 28, 2023
The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation and Black Women’s Roundtable Releases Statement on Jacksonville Shooting Tragedy and Call for Federal Ban on Assault Weapons
Racially-Motivated Hate Crime Amid 60th Anniversary of March on Washington: A Stark Reminder of the Need to Address the Rise in White Nationalism and A Call for A Federal Ban on Assault Weapons
Washington, D.C. (August 28, 2023) - In the wake of the devastating racially motivated shooting in Jacksonville, FL, that claimed the lives of three Black people, the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation (NCBCP) and Black Women’s Roundtable (BWR) are profoundly disturbed by this horrific killing. This tragedy in Jacksonville is another reminder of the dangers and vulnerabilities Black communities are encountering with the rise in hate crimes across the nation and the menacing rise of white supremacist ideologies across the country.
Melanie L. Campbell, President and CEO of the NCBCP and Convener of The Black Women’s Roundtable, stated, "Our deepest condolences go out to the victims' families and the entire Jacksonville community during this trying time. It is heartbreaking that in the midst of the 60th Anniversary of the March on Washington taking place in Washington, DC, a young racist used this moment to commit a hate crime against three innocent Black people. Our nation must confront and challenge the toxic roots of white supremacy that perpetuate such devastating tragedies.” Campbell continued, “It's agonizing to see our communities repeatedly bear the weight of this hatred. Our nation must acknowledge and address the deep-rooted issue of white supremacy that is fueling such atrocities. There is a concerted effort to try to erase our existence – and we will not be erased."
"As we honor the legacy of the 60th Anniversary of the March on Washington and its vision for an inclusive America, the NCBCP and Black Women’s Roundtable urges the Congress to pass a national ban on assault weapons to stem the rise in mass shootings that is killing Americans on a daily basis. The NCBCP is also committed to continuing to advocate for safer communities and stricter gun regulations, ensuring every individual can lead their lives without the shadow of violence hanging over them."
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The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation (NCBCP) is one of the most active civil rights and social justice organizations in the nation “dedicated to increasing civic engagement, economic and voter empowerment in Black America.” The Black Women’s Roundtable (BWR) is the women and girls’ empowerment arm of the NCBCP. At the forefront of championing just and equitable public policy on behalf of Black women, BWR promotes their health and wellness, economic security & prosperity, education and global empowerment as key elements for success.
