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Vigil for Victims of Shootings in El Paso, Dayton and Gilroy

Written by Stephen V. Sundborg, S.J.
August 5, 2019

Dear Seattle University Community,

We are shaken by and grieving the senseless killing of more than 30 people in El Paso, Texas, Dayton, Ohio and Gilroy, California this past week. As we join these communities in mourning and prayer, we hold in our hearts those who were killed, their loved ones, the many who were injured and all who have been affected by these horrific acts of gun violence.

I invite you to a prayer vigil being organized by Campus Ministry at 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, August 7 at the reflecting pool just outside of the Chapel of St. Ignatius. This will be a time for those on campus this week to gather as a community to mourn and remember the victims and pray for their loved ones and for all who are suffering during this painful and difficult time.

We cannot condemn strongly enough these acts of gun violence and domestic terrorism, and the hatred, racism, white supremacy, xenophobia and violent extremism behind the epidemic of mass shootings in America. Further inaction in addressing gun violence is not acceptable. A sense of urgency, moral leadership and collective action are needed to do everything possible to prevent more such tragedies from happening.

For students and colleagues who may be in need of care and support, there are a number of campus resources available:

  • Students can visit Counseling and Psychological Services visit (PAVL 120) during urgent care hours (10 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday-Thursday and 10 a.m., Friday) or call 206-296-6090 for an appointment;
  • Campus Ministers are available in Student Center 120; call 206-296-6075 or 206-296-6052 for an appointment;
  • Advisors at the International Student Center (PAVL 160) are available in PAVL 160 or can be reached at 206-296-6260 or via e-mail at isc@seattleu.edu;
  • Veterans and military service members can visit the Outreach Center (STCN 110) during operating hours (9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday) or call 206-296-6334 to set-up a time to meet with one of our veteran and military support staff;
  • Staff and faculty seeking support can access SU’s EAP benefits through Wellspring. Please contact Human Resources for more information; and
  • Additional resources are also available through the Dean of Students on our website, in Student Center 140 or by calling 206-296-6060.

In peace and prayers,

Stephen V. Sundborg, S.J.
President