MIAMI – Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24) issued the following statement in response the mass shooting at Pulse Nightclub in Orlando:

“I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the victims of the mass shooting at Pulse Nightclub in Orlando this weekend. I am shocked and saddened by the loss of 49 innocent lives and the injuries sustained by dozens of others. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased, the surviving victims for their quick recovery, and everyone touched by this senseless tragedy.

“This attack is an unconscionable act of violence and hatred and an assault on the American way of life and the freedoms that we all enjoy. It is particularly dismaying that it took place during Pride Week and the month in which we are meant to celebrate the LGBT community and the right of everyone to be their true selves and love whomever they want.

“I urge all Americans to come together in solidarity to spread a message of tolerance and unity. As we recover from this tragedy, we must always remember that we are much stronger than hate.”

Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson is a third-term Congresswoman from Florida representing parts of Northern Miami-Dade and Southeast Broward counties. The Florida lawmaker sits on the House Education and the Workforce Committee and is the Ranking Democrat on the Subcommittee on Workforce Protections.