Norton Says the Persistence of Sandy Hook Riders Inspires Action in D.C. and Nationwide for Gun Safety Laws
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) today welcomed Team 26, a group of 26 cyclists inspired to action after the 2012 tragic shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, CT, to the District of Columbia as they completed their 400-mile journey from Newtown.
Norton’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, are below.
“It is a privilege once again to greet and thank Team 26 for coming to the nation’s capital and my congressional district. We particularly thank Team 26 Founder and Leader Monte Frank for making a stop at Faith Presbyterian Church in Southeast D.C., which needs the most attention on gun violence here.
“Above all, we thank Team 26 for being the living, determined symbols of the persistence required to quell gun violence in America. You could have spent the four years since Sandy Hook in church on the anniversary of the tragedy. Of course you remember—so do we. But you have instead converted your unbearable grief into inspiring action, traveling 400 miles to D.C., in all kinds of weather. Your persistence is what the battle against the senseless escalation of guns in our society needs. Your persistence cannot help but inspire.
“You especially inspire the residents of the nation’s capital. Not a year goes by without Members of Congress trying to eliminate all the gun safety laws in the District of Columbia. We have fought back all of these attempts so far. To fight these local control gun battles here in D.C. every year requires inspiration from somewhere. We do not find it in the Congress. The persistence and dedication of Team 26 is where I look for inspiration not only for remembering, but for acting until action becomes unnecessary.”