Joel Connelly of the Seattle PI writes on the horrific shooting in Orlando:

The bloodiest-yet mass killing, the greatest act of violence against America’s LGBTQ community, already has spawned crocodile tears from politicians who have fought against gun safety measures and opposed gay civil rights.

. . .

The candles will be snuffed out, and the country will go back to being resigned, even hardened, to constant assassinations in our midst.  The Gun Lobby will find a “hook,” likely the assassin’s 911 call voicing allegiance to ISIS.

It doesn’t have to be this way. Out of Seattle since 2012 has come a message:  Don’t get numb.

. . .

The enduring gun safety movement in Seattle is a model for the country.  A half-century ago, constructive change in America flowed from the top down.  Now, it flows from the bottom up, from THIS Washington.

So, light a candle!  March!  But then, if you want to turn around the culture of gun violence — there is an average of one multiple shooting a day in America — get a petition and hit the streets.

After all, one favorite quote from an assassinated American president — John F. Kennedy took a few liberties with Dante — was:  “The hottest places in Hell are reserved for those who in time of moral crisis preserve their neutrality.”

Read his full column here.