Tom Izzo delivers powerful address at Michigan State candlelight vigil for shooting victims
mass shooting on campus.
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students died and five others were injured in the tragedy. Izzo, whose daughter is a Michigan State alum and son, a current student, was shaken by the news. He offered a powerful speech that touched those in mourning.
“Our hearts are heavy,” Izzo said. “Our loss has been great. Our lives have been permanently changed. With a shared commitment to help each other and a promise to remember those we have lost, we will find joy again.”
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Michigan State canceled all campus activities in the wake of the shooting. Izzo mentioned how the shooting hit close to home. His son, Steven, was on campus Monday night and felt the aftermath of the tragedy.
“Steven was at one of the buildings two nights ago about 10 minutes after things happened,” Izzo said. “So sometimes we don’t understand because we haven’t been through it. That little moment brought me a little closer to understanding.”
Students hope the local government can take action. Around 100 students protested at the state Capitol in Lansing, Michigan to express their claims to end gun violence. There was frustration and grief from those in attendance.
At the candlelight vigil, Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer and school president Teresa K. Woodruff were also on hand. They each spoke to alongside Izzo. The central theme was to offer support to the Michigan State community.
Izzo took it a step further by thanking the local law enforcement and first responders. He also was grateful that students remained sheltered in place.