Thoughts and prayers are important, but they are far from sufficient. It is long past time for Congress to pass legislation that will reduce the epidemic levels of gun violence in this country.
Why is this important?
As the former Congressman from Newtown, Connecticut, I understand how important the thoughts and prayers of a nation can be for a grieving community. But right now, we also need action — to change our gun laws so that fewer of these shootings happen. Too many of my colleagues are covering over their cowardice and their fealty to the gun lobby by tweeting out sympathies.
Here's the truth: if Congress won't do anything to try to stop the soul-crushing, life-extinguishing gun violence epidemic in this country, then we might as well just pack up and go home.
Our collective silence in the face of these mass shootings is complicity, and it sends a quiet message that we are willing to accept these murders.
It is time for action.