Dearest Friends, This weekend, 49 innocent people were killed and 52 more innocent people injured in a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. This is being called the worst mass shooting in modern U.S. history. We're still learning about what motivated this horrific hate crime against the LGBTQIA+ community, but there is one motivation that is clearly evident in each mass shooting we hear about: toxic and violent misogyny and homophobia. The ex-wife of the shooter has described him as abusive, that he beat her and confiscated her paychecks. That violence manifested itself this weekend and lead to the deaths of almost 50 people. Violence is unacceptable. We need to stop teaching men that violence is the only way to be a man, or that women's bodies are objects they can use however they like. And we need to hold people accountable when they do commit violent acts, to ensure that others don't follow in their footsteps. Judge Persky failed to hold Brock Turner accountable. We need judges who understand that violence of any kind is unacceptable – that's why we're running this campaign. We have many next steps to keep pushing for the judge's impeachment, and I'll share those soon. But for now, sending you all love. My heart is with you and and those who lost loved ones or their lives in this tragic incident. With a heavy heart, Maria Ruiz Contact me @marialametida on Twitter