(Washington, D.C.) – The African American Mayors Association (AAMA) is sending thoughts and prayers to the students, families of the victims, and the entire city of Richmond following yesterday’s tragic shooting. Member-mayors from across the country are lifting up the city and offering their support to Richmond Mayor Levar M. Stoney after a horrific shooting at the Huguenot High School’s graduation ceremony yesterday evening.

“What should have been a milestone and one of the happiest days for these students and their families has now turned into one of the most devastating and tragic,” said AAMA President and Mount Vernon, NY Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard. “How can we continue to let guns destroy people’s families and lives and their sense of security? No person – let alone a child – deserves to face such trauma.  We must take action to save our communities from this deadly epidemic. Everyone plays a part.  AAMA and I will continue to fight for change.”