Bill Summary
This resolution honors the victims of an intentional homicide that took place during a Christmas parade in Waukesha, Wisconsin on November 21, 2021. It acknowledges the lives lost and those who were injured, as well as the community's response to the tragedy, including displaying blue lights and dedicating a mural to the victims. The resolution expresses condolences to the victims' families and friends, recognizes the efforts of first responders and healthcare professionals, and commends the resilience and strength shown by the Waukesha community. It also expresses hope for a future Christmas parade that will demonstrate the perseverance and compassion of the people of Wisconsin.
Possible Impacts
1. This legislation could provide closure and recognition for the families and loved ones of the victims, giving them a sense of peace and comfort in knowing that their loved ones are being honored and remembered by their community and government.
2. The resolution may also bring attention to the issue of violence and the need for stronger measures to prevent future attacks, potentially leading to stricter laws and regulations that could affect the general public in terms of safety and security.
3. The dedication of a mural and the community's continued efforts to heal and overcome the tragedy may inspire others to come together in times of hardship, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity among the people of Waukesha and beyond.
[Congressional Bills 117th Congress] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office] [H. Res. 1486 Introduced in House (IH)] <DOC> 117th CONGRESS 2d Session H. RES. 1486 Honoring the victims of the devastating attack that took place at the Waukesha, Wisconsin, Christmas parade on November 21, 2021. _______________________________________________________________________ IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES November 17, 2022 Mr. Fitzgerald (for himself, Mr. Tiffany, Ms. Moore of Wisconsin, Mr. Pocan, Mr. Steil, Mr. Grothman, Mr. Gallagher, and Mr. Kind) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Oversight and Reform _______________________________________________________________________ RESOLUTION Honoring the victims of the devastating attack that took place at the Waukesha, Wisconsin, Christmas parade on November 21, 2021. Whereas, on November 21, 2021, in Waukesha, Wisconsin, an individual committed intentional homicide on parade participants and attendees, killing 6 people and leaving 62 others with injuries; Whereas the attack occurred during the 58th annual Waukesha Christmas parade, a tradition that featured over 60 local civic groups, businesses, schools, public services, and entertainers; Whereas Virginia Sorenson was a cherished long-time member of Milwaukee's Dancing Grannies and longtime choreographer for the group; Whereas Tamara Durand was a new member of Milwaukee's Dancing Grannies who volunteered for local hospitals and the Red Cross while caring for her grandson; Whereas LeAnna Owen was a committed member of Milwaukee's Dancing Grannies who managed an apartment building and rescued bulldogs; Whereas Jane Kulich was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, and was dedicated to her co-workers at Citizens Bank, with whom she was marching in the parade; Whereas Wilhelm Hospel volunteered for Milwaukee's Dancing Grannies to support his wife, Lola, and was an avid outdoorsman; Whereas Jackson Sparks was a loving child who enjoyed playing baseball for the Waukesha Blazers; Whereas, in response to the tragedy, the community continues to stand ``Waukesha Strong'' in efforts to honor the victims and heal together; Whereas, two weeks after the attack, homes and businesses were decorated in blue lights to honor the victims; Whereas, on September 24, 2022, a mural that serves as a beacon for the community was dedicated to the lives lost in the attack; and Whereas, a year later, the Waukesha community continues to overcome this tragedy: Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That House of Representatives-- (1) honors the memories of Wilhelm Hospel, Virginia Sorenson, LeAnna Owen, Tamara Durand, Jane Kulich, and Jackson Sparks who died in the attack; (2) offers its heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of those who died in the attack; (3) applauds the life-saving efforts of first responders and health professionals in their efforts to provide care for the victims; (4) recognizes the Waukesha community for showing unparalleled resilience, courage, and strength; and (5) expresses its wishes that the next Waukesha Christmas parade will be a show of strength and compassion in the community, demonstrating the perseverance of Wisconsinites. <all>