We are devastated by the news of the shooting that took place in Monterey Park on Saturday night, that as of the latest coverage has cost the lives of 11 precious souls and injured 10 others. We mourn with this community and offer our prayers and deepest sympathies for all those impacted by this horrific act.
Small Business Development Corporation of Orange County is privileged to work with and assist a diversity of groups and has many partners and clients throughout the Asian American societies of Monterey Park and the broader San Gabriel Valley region. This violent act took place following a joyous celebration for the beginning of Lunar New Year, deeply marring this first such community gathering in more than two years. When tragedy affects any of our communities, we are also impacted and we offer our support to those suffering from this terrible loss. We applaud the efforts of first responders who quickly aided the victims of this attack, and in particular the individual whose bravery prevented a second massacre. We also call for action to end such senseless violence that forever alters the lives of scores of people and too often plagues communities around this nation.
Michael A. Ocasio
President
The Association of Financial Development Corporations