Remembering Lewiston

 By Charles Hawes, Capital News

Lewiston, ME — One year ago, in the quiet community of Lewiston, Maine, an act of tragic violence shattered the lives of many, leaving 18 people dead and injuring 13 others on a chilling autumn night. Doug and I, along with all of Maine, remember those lives lost and stand in solidarity with their families and survivors who continue to bear the weight of that harrowing evening at a beloved local restaurant and a popular bowling alley.

    The last twelve months have been a testament to Lewiston's strength, resilience, and unity. While the pain and trauma caused by gun violence remain a profound challenge, the people of Lewiston have shown their commitment to preventing such devastation from recurring. Their courage and resolve serve as a stark reminder to the nation of the ongoing epidemic of gun violence and the toll it takes on communities across America.

    Responding to this national crisis has taken on new urgency, and recent efforts by our administration have aimed to address these pressing concerns. With invaluable insight and support from gun violence survivors, the families of victims, young leaders, and community advocates, we successfully championed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act — the most significant piece of gun safety legislation in nearly three decades. This act has strengthened background checks, closed gun show loopholes, and represented a historic investment in youth mental health resources. Furthermore, it provided support for red flag laws and community violence intervention programs across the country. In the wake of the Lewiston tragedy, we took an unprecedented step by launching the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention to directly support affected communities, ensuring that federal resources were tailored to the needs of survivors.

    Despite this progress, the fight to secure the safety of our children and communities continues. We are actively calling on Congress to pass universal background checks, enact red flag and safe storage laws, prohibit bump stocks, and reinstate the federal assault weapons ban. Our commitment is unwavering: we will continue working toward a future where every American can live free from violence, fear, and hate. Today, as we reflect on the events of last year, we honor the memory of those we lost and the bravery of those who endured. Lewiston’s courage, resilience, and refusal to succumb to despair remind us of what is possible when a community stands united.


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