ACOG Statement on the Orlando Nightclub Shooting

Washington, DC—Thomas Gellhaus, MD, President of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), released the following statement regarding the Orlando nightclub shooting:

"The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) is devastated by the tragic act of violence that took place in Orlando this past weekend and our heartfelt thoughts and deepest sympathy go out to the victims and their families. ACOG advocates for the health and well-being of all individuals and believes no one should suffer discrimination, persecution or attacks regardless of sexual orientation, race, gender, ethnicity or religion. Physicians see first-hand the impact that firearm related injuries and death have on our patients, as well as their families and our communities. Gun violence is not only a criminal issue, it is a major public health problem. We vow to continue the fight for gun safety until senseless acts of violence no longer threaten our patients and our communities."

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College), a 501(c)(3) organization, is the nation's leading group of physicians providing health care for women. As a private, voluntary, nonprofit membership organization of more than 57,000 members, The College strongly advocates for quality health care for women, maintains the highest standards of clinical practice and continuing education of its members, promotes patient education, and increases awareness among its members and the public of the changing issues facing women’s health care. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), a 501(c)(6) organization, is its companion organization. www.acog.org