Speier Releases Statement on Anniversary of Arizona Shooting

Congresswoman Jackie Speier, D-San Mateo, on Friday released a statement in connection with the one-year anniversary of the tragic Tuscon shooting.

The shooting, which happened on Jan. 8, 2011, left six people dead and 13 others, including Arizona Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, injured.

In her statement, Speier expressed optimisim about Giffords' continued recovery and said Giffords remains an inspiration.

“The progress Congresswoman Giffords’ has made since she suffered the traumatic head injury is nothing short of miraculous,” Speier said in the statement.

“Her grit and determination are inspiring to all of us,” Speier said. “We should not forget the families of the victims who were killed in this horrendous attack on human life. Their lives will forever be scarred by their losses.”

Last year, Speier introduced a resolution designating the first Saturday in January after Congress reconvenes as ‘National Congress on Your Corner Day.’

Speier added, “Constituent interaction is a fundamental part of the responsibilities of a member of Congress. I believe Congresswoman Giffords would agree with me that the tragedy in Tucson must not make it more difficult for elected officials to be accessible to their constituents.”