YDSD Statement on the Shooting at Club Q in Colorado Springs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 21, 2022

SIOUX FALLS, SD—YDSD Political Director and Sioux Falls Pride Vice Chair Cody Ingle issued this statement following the mass shooting at Club Q, an LGBTQ+ nightclub in Colorado Springs, which killed at least five people and injured at least eighteen:

"On Sunday, November 21, 2022, the day we observe Transgender Day of Remembrance, several members of the LGBTQ+ and Two-Spirit community woke up to the devastating news of yet another targeted mass shooting at Q Club, a club that was reported as one of the only safe spaces for members of the community in Colorado Springs. Our community is hurting—we are sad, exhausted, and infuriated. My heart aches for all involved, from victims to families. There is no reason for a mass execution like this in the United States today, where we claim “acceptance and inclusivity” for all.

Our community is resilient. Throughout history, we have consistently watched elected officials remain silent while we die. The victims in Colorado Springs deserve better than this. All were beautiful individuals of the LGBTQ+ and Two-Spirit community or allies of the community. The Young Democrats of South Dakota extend our condolences to those involved. However, we also commit to more than just a statement.

We will continue to fight for equity concerning the LGBTQ+ and Two-Spirit community.

We will continue to call out elected officials who spread hate rhetoric.

More importantly, we commit to continue our unwavering support of LGBTQ+ and Two-Spirit individuals and their right to exist in a space where they can live authentically.

It took me a long time to feel safe enough to live authentically. It was not an easy experience—and many in the community have similar feelings. When our only safe spaces are attacked, it makes it even more difficult for our community to feel as though we can live as our true selves. South Dakota is a state that does not feel safe, and this mainly stems from elected officials who consistently attack our community.

Hate and ignorance embolden individuals to target our community. The Young Democrats of South Dakota thoroughly oppose any speech or legislation that discriminates against LGBTQ+ and Two-Spirit individuals. We are here as partners and allies to the community, and as stated before will continue to do all we can to fully support the community.

During this legislative cycle, we will be sure to advocate for inclusive policies and call out and fight against all those that are discriminatory. We will not be silent while the LGBTQ+ and Two-Spirit community is attacked. We send much more than our “thoughts and prayers.”

Cheers,

Cody Ingle

Pronouns: He/Him/His"

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