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Good evening ladies and gentlemen, I am here on behalf of my husband Mayor-President Melvin “Kip” Holden who regrettably could not be here this evening because of a scheduling conflict.
I am also here as a mother of five and a long time resident of this city. For in the city of baton rouge what affects one, affects us all both good and bad. And while this is clearly a time of mourning, this is also a time for us to show the rest of the state, the nation and even the world that we are a city that rallies behind and supports its young people and that we are a city that puts family first.
We must all pull together to help and comfort the families and friends of those who lost their lives on Friday. We must all pull together and do whatever it takes to make sure that our young people are protected. We must all pull together to ensure that the horrible events of Friday are a rarity and not a common occurrence.
So to the Graves family, the Butler family and the Williams family, on behalf of my husband, please know that our hearts go out to you. Right now I am sure that there are no words that can truly bring you comfort. However, as you grieve let me reassure you that you are not alone, for we, the residents of baton rouge, are here for you… you are in our hearts and you are in our prayers.
And while we may all seek to find the answer to the question of “why this tragedy happened,” let us also seek to find peace in our hearts and peace in our community. Truly these are changing times and the events of Friday have undoubtedly changed the lives of us all. But let not Friday, February 8, 2008 be just remembered as a day where three beautiful students lost their lives, but rather a day that served as a catalyst in bringing the entire family of baton rouge closer together.
Thank you.