Rep. Maxine Waters Reacts to Shooting in Historic African American South Carolina Church

Statement

I join with the President and my colleagues in Congress in mourning the senseless massacre of the nine Emanuel A.M.E. victims in Charleston, SC. As the oldest black congregation south of Baltimore, Emanuel A.M.E. has been a beacon of hope and inspiration for African Americans since the early 1800s. From the early days of slavery, to the height of the Civil Rights Movement, Emanuel A.M.E. has been a foundation for Charleston's black community. That this unspeakable terror could occur within a sanctuary held in such high regard is chilling and all too familiar to many of us who lived at the peak of the Civil Rights movement.

While we do not yet know the full details regarding why this happened, we do know that nine lives were stolen from us too soon. And in an instance, a community and nation is once again called to reflect on our history and how we can forge a better future in which the dignity of all people is respected -- among them the liberty and lives of black men and women whether they are walking on the street or praying in Church. If we are to lead the world against terror and radicalism, we must ensure that such violent conduct is not tolerated at home. I support the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the U.S. Attorney's Office for South Carolina for their decision to open a hate crime investigation into the shooting.

It is my sincere hope that the nation will unite in support of Charleston at this difficult time. May the families find peace in knowing that in their final resting place, their loved ones were at home in faith and peaceful worship.

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