Justice Sandra Day O'Connor's Statement on Saturday's Events in Tucson

TEMPE, Ariz., Jan. 12, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Every American has great sympathy for the victims and the families of victims of the tragic events that took place in Tucson this past Saturday.  As we grieve, we must not allow these events to further divide our state and our nation.

We must reject violence and hostility and bring civility and rationale dialogue into our government and our community life. This is a responsibility of every one of us as individuals.

Only we – working together – can restore reason and civility in our public speech and actions.

Congresswoman Giffords is a fine example of a public official who brings these efforts and qualities to her meetings and gatherings.  May her health be restored and may we all remember the role each of us plays in restoring civil talk to our public expressions.  

Before speaking out ask yourself whether your words are true, whether they are respectful and whether they are needed in our civil discussions.

Sandra Day O'Connor

January 12, 2011

Additional Information:  Justice Sandra Day O'Connor's commitment to bringing civility into the public conversation is a driving force behind O'Connor House, a not-for-profit organization established in 2008. O'Connor House is dedicated to finding actionable solutions to complex issues that affect Arizona and the nation, using a process of convening, collaborating and catalyzing that embodies the core values of Justice O'Connor.  

Justice O'Connor spoke recently on the importance of bringing civility into the public dialogue.  To see and hear her comments, click here.   http://www.youtube.com/gsacpc

For more information: Contact Pam Hait/Strategies at 602-952-0040 or Lucia Howard/O'Connor House (602) 380-1636.

SOURCE O'Connor House