Story

Generations United’s Statement on Tragedies in Buffalo and Uvalde

Loved ones and neighbors are grieving in the midst of the tragedies in Buffalo and Uvalde, while our nation remains paralyzed by inaction. The United States is plagued by consistent gun violence. But we’re doing nothing to prevent these horrific acts.

 

In Uvalde, Texas, a grandson killed 21 people, including 19 young children, at Robb Elementary School despite his grandmother’s love and support.

 

In Buffalo, NY, a racially-motivated murderer killed 10 Black people, including grandparents, getting groceries at Tops Friendly Markets who never came home to family meals and celebrations.

 

The mass shootings in Buffalo and Uvalde are the most recent unfathomable human-caused disasters in a succession of devastating mass shootings and daily gun violence. While Generations United’s thoughts and prayers won’t resurrect those lost, we send genuine condolences to the grieving families, friends, and communities.

 

We also send healing prayers to the Texas assailant’s grandmother, whom he shot. She was among the nation’s more than two million grandparents who step up to care for children on a permanent or temporary basis.

 

As we navigate this epidemic of violence, we call for more than thoughts and prayers—we demand action and accountability.

 

Generations United stands with and mourns with the grieving families. We must not become numb but, instead, act more urgently to enact solutions, because we’re stronger together.

 

Here are some valuable resources from Generations United and other organizations:

 

Reinforcing a Strong Foundation: Equitable Supports for Basic Needs of Grandfamilies

 

In Loving Arms: The Protective Role of Grandparents and Other Relatives in Raising Children Exposed to Trauma

 

Improving Grandfamilies’ Access to Temporary Assistance for Needy Families

 

American Psychological Association (APA) has tips for managing your own distress

 

Call 1-855-4A PARENT (1-855-427-2736) Advocates available 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.

 

Helping Children Cope With Terrorism From National Association of School Psychologists

 

Once I was Very Scared