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A training session for the joyous bipartisan Congressional Baseball Game on Wednesday morning took a dark turn when a gunman opened fire on the Republican team while they were practicing for the game. Since then, numerous heartfelt tributes to the victims of the shooting in Alexandria, Virginia, have begun spreading across the internet.
Five people were rushed to hospitals after the attack, though thankfully, none of their injuries have been fatal, and all are expected to survive. The victims include House Majority Whip Rep. Steve Scalise, who was shot in the hip and whose presence at the field is the reason that the Capitol Police force was there and able to react so quickly. The others who sustained injuries were two Capitol police officers named David Bailey and Krystal Griner, congressional staffer Zack Barth, and former congressional staffer Matt Mika, who is now a lobbyist for Tyson Foods.
Although the country's political divide is at and all time high — a gulf reflected more prominently in Congress than anywhere else — we can at least all agree that violence is absolutely the wrong way to solve the nation's problems. As the Alexandria shooting victims and their loved ones begin the path towards recovery, here are some of the best tributes that have come out for them so far.
1
The First Tribute
When the Democratic team heard the news while they were practicing at another location, they took a moment to think about their colleagues who were so needlessly put into harm's way.
2
A Wish For The Future
This shooting has proven, yet again, that Martin Luther King Jr.'s words on the subject are still so relevant.
3
A Message Of Togetherness
Many have responded by blaming one side or the other for the attack, but that's not what will help.
4
An Important Thank You
Without the brave actions of the Capitol Police, this could be a far greater tragedy.
5
Good Wishes From Across The Aisle
Sen. Harris is only one of many congressional Democrats who have extended their support.
6
Support From The White House
First lady Melania Trump was quick to send a message of gratitude and well-wishing.
7
A Reminder Of Today's Other Significance
Today is Flag Day, although now it will be remembered for something else too.
9
Violence Is Never The Right Choice
Violent rhetoric is also just as out of line, and dangerous.
10
One Very Fitting Tribute
The game is a charity event, after all — so donating to its charities would be one way to honor the victims.
12
A Note From The Resistance
Let's repeat it again: violence is never the answer.
13
Thoughts From A Well Known Liberal
A well known liberal, and an extremely eloquent one.
14
Another Voice From Blue America
George Takei did not break his pattern of speaking out against senseless violence.
15
A Message From The Top
The president was quick to respond to his friend's injury, and he's also made a public statement about shooting, calling for unity in the country.
16
From Gabrielle Giffords, Who Knows The Courage It Takes To Recover
Giffords, a former Congress member who was the victim of a horrific shooting in 2011 while speaking to constituents at an event, responded with empathy and strength.
17
More Gratitude For Capitol Police
D.C. police officers' quick response likely saved many lives on Wednesday, and many people thanked them for their bravery.
The shooting was a tragic start to the day, and we'll surely finding out more information about it in the coming days and weeks. For now, we can stand together with the people who are most in need of support.
