For Immediate Release
October 7, 2024

Contact Information:
Vaibhav Vijay, Vaibhav.Vijay@mail.house.gov
Kyla Gill, Kyla.Gill@mail.house.gov

Rep. Lee, County Executive Innamorato, and Mayor Gainey Release Statement Recognizing One Year Since October 7th Attack

PITTSBURGH, PA – Today, Congresswoman Summer Lee (PA-12), Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato, and Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey released the following statement to recognize one year since the October 7th attack:

“Today, we mark one year since the October 7th attacks with hearts big enough to grieve both those killed one year ago by Hamas and those killed in the year since by the Israeli military. We grieve with every person who has lost a family member, a friend, or a loved one. Our hearts ache for the tens of thousands of Palestinians who have been killed; for the Israelis still held hostage; for the millions of displaced Palestinians, Lebanese, and Israelis who have seen their communities destroyed and are suffering today; and for those who have faced hate and violence here at home. The pain of this tragedy is deep and it serves as a solemn reminder of the urgent need for lasting peace.

Our grief is compounded by the fact that it didn’t have to be this way. Over the past year, we’ve seen how continued escalation, a lack of diplomacy, and a drive for power by right-wing leaders have pushed the region to the brink of regional war. In these dark times, we remain committed to being voices for peace. The only way to bring peace is to de-escalate, not hasten another endless war. This violence did not start on October 7th, but it can end now if we all commit to peace and diplomacy. 

In this moment, we renew our call for a ceasefire and an end to this cycle of violence. Our country cannot spend more tax-payer money on bombs when healthcare remains out of reach for so many and our infrastructure is crumbling. Our communities are looking for elected officials who find the courage to lead with empathy, whether in response to violence abroad or violence in our neighborhoods. Together, we call on people and all elected leaders to strive for a lasting peace that ensures safety, dignity, and justice for all people.”