A Special Message from HACR's President and CEO Cid Wilson on the 2nd Anniversary of the El Paso, TX, Mass Shooting
Washington - August 3, 2021 - On this day two years ago, an armed assailant shot and killed 23 people at a Walmart store in El Paso, Texas. The accused shooter issued a manifesto against a perceived “Hispanic invasion” of the United States shortly before the tragic shooting, according to news reports.
Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives on that tragic day. The El Paso shooting is an unfortunate reminder that there are elements in our American society who will commit deadly violence solely because of who we are as Latinos. HACR will continue to advocate for a more inclusive corporate America which, combined with community and civic advocacy, can be a catalyst for a more just and equitable American society.
We commend those corporations that have used their influence to publicly condemn acts of hate and violence. We renew our call for corporations to cease their advertising spend on media that have a history of promoting hate and negativity towards Latinos and other marginalized groups.
For those that are employed in corporations, situations such as the El Paso shootings can be a source of significant concern and stress. We encourage companies to create safe spaces for dialog on the challenges employees face outside of their place of employment. As a resource, HACR offers best practices for addressing employee distress. Please see our video by Yai Vargas, HACR Vice President of Strategic Engagement & Initiatives.
HACR stands with our brothers and sisters in our Latino community as well the African-American, Asian-American, LGBTQAI+, Jewish, Muslim, and other groups who have been the victims of hate crime. Together, we will continue to advocate for action against hate until we achieve our goal of a more inclusive society.
Sincerely,
Cid Wilson
President & CEO
Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility (HACR)