It has been a heartbreaking and sobering time in Minnesota. We are deeply saddened and shocked by the horrific act of violence directed at two courageous and compassionate public servants. This tragedy has left our communities reeling in grief, fear, and anger.
We are living through a time of deep division and heightened tension. But violence is never the answer—not to disagreements, not to frustrations, and not to ideological differences. Ever.
Violence is a symptom of something deeper. It is a reflection of growing distrust, isolation, and rage. Harmful rhetoric and unchecked inflammatory language feed these emotions, amplifying fear, distrust, and fueling division. When we lose compassion and understanding for one another, the result is a breakdown in connection and community.
We need to have the difficult conversations that are the catalysts to change. We need to talk with the people in our communities and discuss the reasons why this violence is happening and how we can change course. We must listen to one another, confront painful truths, and ask how we move forward together. This cannot keep happening.
As we mourn the loss of a remarkable leader and her husband, we must commit ourselves, not just in words, but in action. We need to break cycles of harm, rebuild trust, and show up for one another with courage, clarity, and care. Healing will come through connection. Connection comes through restorative circles, facilitated dialogue, community conversations, and the difficult work of listening deeply to one another. It calls on us to face our pain together—with honesty, humility, and hope—to ensure that something this horrific never happens again.