Officials Endorse "Lights Out" To Support Shooting Victims and Families

It started with a Patch reader's humble suggestion: turn out your Christmas lights tonight to mourn the loss of children and adults in today's tragic shooting in .

Wrote Sharron on the San Carlos Patch Facebook page: "A nationwide blackout of all Christmas lights tonight to show sympathy for those in CT whose holidays & lives have been shattered. Would you be willing to post this idea? So many families in San Carlos have small children. I think a lot of people would be willing to do this. I thought it was a
lovely idea and the least we could do."

Now, in the face of shock and overwhelming grief, elected officials are echoing the call.

"I think it’s a very appropriate and honorable gesture during these very challenging times for the families at Sandy Hook Elementary School," said Assemblyman Phil Ting (D-San Francisco), noting that he has two young daughters. He will spend tonight "mourning the loss of our young children."

“The holidays are a time when we hold our families closest and it is impossible to understand the acts that have taken place today in Connecticut," said Assemblymember Mark Stone (D-Monterey Bay) who represents Santa Cruz. "My thoughts and compassion go out to the victims and their families, and I ask that we all take this time remember those who are important to us.” 

Assemblyman Rich Gordon (D-Menlo Park) and Belmont City Councilmember Coralin Feierbach have also endorsed the call to put out the lights tonight.

Will you put out your Christmas lights tonight? Tell us in the comments. To spread the word, share this story on Facebook and Twitter with the hashtag #lightsout.