08/19/2026
Southern Utah Pacific Islander Student Association
Statement Regarding the Tragic Shooting in Kearns, Utah
August 17, 2026
As President of the Southern Utah Pacific Islander Student Association, I am deeply saddened by the violence that occurred outside a funeral in Kearns. We mourn the lives that were lost, and our thoughts are with those who were injured and everyone affected by this tragedy.
A funeral should be a place where families can grieve, honor a loved one, and find comfort in their community. This incident is a painful reminder of the lasting harm gun violence causes, especially when conflicts escalate.
Having grown up in Sacramento, California, I have seen how gun violence affects more than those directly involved. It leaves families grieving, young people traumatized, and entire communities feeling unsafe.
As Pacific Islanders, our strength comes from family, unity, faith, respect, and care for one another. We must reject the idea that violence is an acceptable response to conflict. We encourage our communities to support peaceful conflict resolution, provide guidance and positive resources for young people, and speak up before disagreements become tragedies.
PISA stands against gun violence in every community. We extend our deepest condolences to everyone affected by the tragedy that occurred in Kearns. May we honor those harmed by working together to create safer communities where our young people can live, learn, and grow without fear.
— Andre Jackson, President
Southern Utah Pacific Islander Student Association
CC: Tevita Sekeni, Advisor
Southern Utah Pacific Islander Student Association
