Congress Formally Remembers Highland Park Tragedy on Third Anniversary, Honors Victims and First Responders

This resolution is a formal statement from the House of Representatives marking the third anniversary of the tragic mass shooting that occurred during the Independence Day Parade in Highland Park, Illinois, on July 4, 2022. It is purely commemorative, serving to honor the victims, recognize the community's resilience, and commend the emergency personnel who responded that day. The resolution does not introduce new laws, allocate funds, or change existing policy; it is Congress formally acknowledging a profound community trauma.

Remembering the Seven Lives Lost

The core of the resolution is dedicated to formally naming and honoring the seven people killed: Katie Goldstein, Irina McCarthy, Kevin McCarthy, Stephen Strauss, Jacquelyn Sundheim, Nicolas Toledo-Zaragoza, and Eduardo Uvaldo. It takes time to acknowledge the devastating ripple effects, specifically mentioning the family members left behind, including children like 2-year-old Aiden McCarthy and 8-year-old Cooper Roberts, who was severely injured. For the average person, this kind of formal recognition in the halls of Congress means that the trauma experienced by this community is not forgotten on a national level, even three years later.

The Heroes of that Day

The resolution spends significant time commending the bravery of the first responders. This includes the Highland Park Police and Fire Departments, as well as the dozens of local, state, and federal agencies—like the FBI and ATF—that rushed in to assist. It also thanks the doctors, nurses, and hospital staff who treated the more than 40 wounded victims. This section is a formal salute to the essential workers who run toward danger, which is a crucial, if often overlooked, element of public safety infrastructure in any community.

Healing and Justice Acknowledged

Beyond the immediate response, the resolution recognizes the long road to recovery. It notes that volunteer counselors have provided support to thousands in the local school districts over the past three years. It also acknowledges that a measure of justice has been served, noting that the person responsible for the crime was sentenced to life in prison without parole. Finally, the resolution concludes by affirming that the people of Highland Park remain strong and supported by their neighbors, and it reaffirms the House’s commitment to addressing gun violence nationwide, referencing the passage of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act signed in June 2022.