Barbara Tulipane, CAE, president and CEO of the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) issued the following statement in response to the shooting at Eugene Simpson Stadium Park in Alexandria, Virginia:

“NRPA is deeply saddened by the events that took place this morning at Eugene Simpson Stadium Park.

A lone gunman acting out of hatred and likely mental illness brought fear and violence to a place where people come together for health, unity and peace, just like our members of Congress did this morning.

As we move forward, we ask people to continue to embrace local parks and recreation centers as places we can all gather and unite in the fight against hate and violence, regardless of background, race or ability.”

About The National Recreation and Park Association
The National Recreation and Park Association is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to ensuring that all Americans have access to parks and recreation for health, conservation and social equity. Through its network of nearly 60,000 recreation and park professionals and advocates, NRPA encourages the promotion of healthy and active lifestyles, conservation initiatives and equitable access to parks and public space. For more information, visit www.nrpa.org. For digital access to NRPA’s flagship publication, Parks & Recreation, visit www.parksandrecreation.org.