FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

December 1, 2025 

MEDIA CONTACT
Magaly Smith, media@weareoneamerica.org, 206-452-8403 

OneAmerica Statement on Tragic Shooting in Washington D.C.
 

Seattle, WA – Roxana Norouzi, the Executive Director of OneAmerica, a statewide immigrant rights organization in Washington, shared the following statement regarding the tragic shooting of two National Guard Members that occurred on Wednesday, November 26 in Washington D.C.:  

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic shooting of two National Guard members in Washington D.C., and our hearts go out to their families and loved ones. Any act of violence is devastating and carries ripple effects of grief across communities.  

We are also deeply concerned that the actions of one individual are prompting broad proposals to re-vet newly arrived Afghans, pause all Afghan immigration processing, and to double down on an already horrific mass deportation agenda that has harmed so many. We condemn such sweeping actions and statements and any effort to ascribe guilt to those who share no more than a birthplace or an immigration status with someone. This tragedy should not be used as a tool to target, demonize, and separate immigrant families who have already overcome so much to live in peace and freedom. Many of our own Afghan members now find themselves unsure of their future, wondering whether they can continue their path as new Americans and what the coming days may bring.  

There is still much we do not know about how Afghan nationals or newcomers from the 18 other countries mentioned in recent statements by government officials will be affected. Our role and our mission remain clear: to support our community with care and accurate information as it becomes available. To fight for a state and country where all immigrants are welcome and oppose any policy or tactics that demonize immigrants to advance a political agenda. 

We also want to affirm a truth that remains unchanged: the actions of one individual do not represent the values, character, or contributions of the thousands of Afghans who call Washington home, many of whom served alongside our military. We stand with our immigrant community members who bring beauty and joy to our state, who are building new lives in safety, and are actively working with us to build a Washington state where all of us can thrive. They are our neighbors, our coworkers, and our partners in building stronger communities. Their labor, dreams, and dedication are planted into the soil of Washington, making it not just where they live, but where they belong.”