WASHINGTON, DC—The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) is deeply saddened by the horrific mass shootings that occurred over the weekend in Buffalo, NY and Laguna, CA. We express our sincere condolences to the victims and the loved ones of those impacted by these acts of racially and politically motivated violence. Our thoughts go out to the victims and their families—among whom was Jennifer Warrington, a pharmacist at Tops Supermarket who was shot during the shooting in Buffalo.
As an organization that represents a profession that is dedicated to providing health care and support for communities and citizens around the country, APhA condemns any act of violence. Furthermore, APhA denounces all forms of racism and urges communities to actively work to dismantle racism.
We acknowledge the pain, anger, and anxiety that many of our patients and colleagues are feeling. We must create intentional time and space to reflect and support each other as we process these occurrences. APhA emphasizes its commitment to our organizational policies denouncing racism and reaffirms the need for communities and policy makers to address gun violence, build stronger communities rooted in solidarity, and resolve health inequities.
Pharmacists and pharmacy personnel are integral members of our communities and seek safe environments for all who live, work, and/or pray in those communities. Hatred, either through action or through words, has no place anywhere.
The safety of communities and the professionals serving those communities must be secured. We stand ready to work side-by-side with our colleagues and communities to end racism and discrimination, and their deleterious effects to society and our nation’s public health.
About APhA
APhA is the only organization advancing the entire pharmacy profession. Our expert staff and strong volunteer leadership, including many experienced pharmacists, allow us to deliver vital leadership to help pharmacists, pharmaceutical scientists, student pharmacists, and pharmacy technicians find success and satisfaction in their work and advocate for changes that benefit them, their patients, and their communities. For more information, please visit www.pharmacist.com, or email our APhA Taskforce to Address Structural Racism in Pharmacy at Taskforce@aphanet.org with any questions or comments that you may have.
CONTACT: media@aphanet.org