NIWRC Responds to Club Q Shooting, Gun Violence

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(LAME DEER, Mont., November 22, 2022)—Our hearts are devastated to hear of the hateful, senseless attack at Club Q in Colorado Springs, CO on November 19, the eve of the Transgender Day of Remembrance, and the last day of Trans Awareness Week. The National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center extends our deepest condolences to the victims’ families and loved ones and stands firmly in solidarity with the 2S+/LGBTQ+ community of Colorado Springs to speak out against violence and hatred.

For those hurting and looking for help, the Trevor Project has trained counselors who understand the challenges LGBTQ people face and are available 24/7. Call 1-866-488-7386, text 678678, or chat at thetrevorproject.org/get-help.  

For relatives searching for culturally-based resources, please visit the StrongHearts Native Helpline. This is a safe, confidential helpline created by and for Indigenous people to reach out for help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone, chat, or text at 1-844-762-8483 or by visiting strongheartshelpline.org.  

Across Indigenous cultures and communities, our traditional teachings uphold respect for all identities and celebrate diversity. Violence of any kind is NOT traditional; no one is to be abused, feared, or excluded because of who they are or who they love. Teachings about love, compassion, courage, and support can help reverse the shame tied to Western norms about gender and sexual orientation. 

As relatives, we must speak firmly against dangerous attitudes toward our 2S+/LGBTQ+ relatives and instead, use our Indigenous values and sacred teachings of love, respect, and compassion to advocate for more inviting, safe, accessible, and inclusive spaces.

Furthermore, we must confront the gun violence crisis and the horrific toll it has taken on women, our 2S+/LGBTQ+ community, and youth at disparate rates; this lack of safety is unacceptable and represents the glaring reality of a system that has failed to prioritize the well-being of our nation’s most vulnerable. 

As relatives and advocates, we must recommit to the work of honoring those impacted by violence and hate. Let us remain resolved to take action in ensuring that all feel safe, protected, and supported to live free of violence and discrimination.

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