The shooting that took place in Tucson on this date one year ago was a tragedy. The actions of Jared Lee Loughner were downright barbaric. Six people died that day Christina Taylor-Green, Dorothy "Dot" Morris, Phyllis Schneck, Dorwan Stoddard, Gabe Zimmerman and Judge John Roll. Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords made a miraculous recovery and several others survived their wounds. Today is the memorial to the victims of the inicident that took place during Gifford's "Congress on your corner" event of January 8th, 2011.
By sheer coincidence, I was teaching in Tucson the day of the shooting and I am currently on campus (teaching again) during the memorial service being held on the mall. Like most in this country, I was shocked by the event and that people were injured and murdered for no rational reason. I was further appalled by the position taken by pundits after the news hit the wire about it. Events such as this transcend politics. Whether you are Liberal, Conservative or your views fall under those broad political concepts, there is only one position for you to take. To turn this into a matter of politics is callous.
This unfortunate act of violence has illustrated how deep the political schism in America. There is no civility or class to the debate any longer and a event where people can participate directly with their representative is met with violence. I learned when I was a wee lad that violence does not solve anything. The event which transpired last year should have been a reason to close said schism. Only time will tell. At the very least, we as a society need to remember the victims and remain vigilant so events such as this will never happen again.
-Manny
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