WASHINGTON - Joe Solmonese, president of the Human Rights Campaign, issued the following statement regarding the tragedy yesterday at Virginia Tech:

"The Human Rights Campaign joins the nation in mourning the tragic loss of life at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia. Our prayers are with the students, faculty, families and entire school community as the facts of this terrible tragedy unfold and as the enormity of the unprecedented loss sets in. Yesterday's senseless act of violence cut short the hopes and dreams of the best and brightest America has to offer. America is a strong country with great resolve, and it's that resolve that will bring this country together in supporting the victims and their families and friends in the days ahead."

The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.