Love for Lewiston

The Maine community is reeling from the tragic loss of our neighbors in Lewiston during yet another mass shooting in the United States. Eighteen people lost their lives, more than a dozen were injured, and the pain of this tragedy touches everyone in Maine and beyond. On the Sunday following the shooting, more than thousand people gathered at the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Lewiston for One Lewiston Vigil and Community Remembrance.

Our thoughts and love are with those who were killed, injured, their families and friends, Maine’s Deaf community, the Lewiston/Auburn community, and our entire, united Maine community. This unacceptable and devastating violence must end.

At ILAP, we support those who have come to the United States seeking safety, security, and the chance for a better life. Yet far too often, those fleeing violence come face-to-face with it here in the United States alongside their neighbors. Our country and our policies can and must do more to provide safety and security – for everyone.

We know that the Maine community will get through this, but we should not have to. No community should. ILAP urges all members of our community to seek the help and support they need during this painful time, recognizing that past experiences of violence and trauma can re-surface in times like these.

Our hearts are with all of you as this trauma reverberates across our state, our home.