NIWRC Offers Prayer and Support in the Aftermath of Española Shooting
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: NON-FEDERAL MOMENT
Media Contact:
media@niwrc.org
NIWRC Offers Prayer and Support in the Aftermath of Española Shooting
Triggers: Gun Violence, Public Shooting
(LAME DEER, Mont., Sept. 29, 2023)—Less than 24 hours ago, a shooting occurred in Española, NM, where community members and organizers gathered to prayerfully protest the rededication statue of war criminal Juan De Oñate. We support and pray for the NDN Collective, the Red Nation Movement, the Three Sisters Collective, and all attendees who rightfully decry monuments celebrating the genocide of Native peoples.
This act of brutality is a tragic reminder of the persistent violence inflicted on Indigenous people. No one deserves to experience or be exposed to violence of any kind. Indigenous communities continue to face multilayered challenges, at disparate rates, that aim to eliminate Native and Indigenous peoples. We stand with all of you in prayer, thought, and solidarity.
We send our prayers for Jacob Johns (Hopi and Akimel O’odham), who was shot while selflessly protecting others. We honor his bravery in protecting Native women and children. If you feel led, there is a GoFundMe page to help pay his medical expenses.
→ Link: https://gofund.me/21f17681
Our hearts are with all of you.
If you are in need of support at any time, please know that there are resources and compassionate listeners nearby.
- The StrongHearts Native Helpline 1-844-7NATIVE (762-8483) is a 24/7 safe, confidential, and anonymous domestic, dating, and sexual violence helpline for Native Americans and Alaska Natives, offering culturally appropriate support and advocacy. Visit strongheartshelpline.org and click on the “Chat Now” icon to connect one-on-one with a live advocate.
