Bruce Lesley, president of First Focus on Children, released the following statement in response to the horrific deaths of 19 children and two adults at the hands of a gunman yesterday at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas:

“I feel the same today as I felt nearly 10 years ago after Sandy Hook. At that time, I said that we can’t tolerate this anymore. These tragedies must end. And to end them, we must change. At this point, our nation’s children merit attention, priority, and a commitment to change. The status quo has not worked and should no longer be acceptable to anyone.”

To read the full statement from 2012, please visit FirstFocus.org.