Americans Unite at Times like This: Grief is Not Partisan

On the night of January 29th, a tragic collision over the Potomac River claimed the lives of all aboard an American Airlines flight and an Army Black Hawk helicopter. The American Airlines flight, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, collided midair with the Army Black Hawk helicopter, resulting in both aircraft crashing into the river. This devastating tragedy has left communities grieving, but it also offers an opportunity for all of us to focus on the unifying power of compassion in the face of immense loss.

Despite our often-polarized political climate, leaders across party lines have come together to express their sorrow and support for the victims’ families. Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser, a Democrat, acknowledged the collective grief, stating, “We all share a profound sense of grief.” She also expressed gratitude for the first responders who worked through the night in freezing conditions.

In Wichita at a news conference this morning, a representative for Republican U.S. Senator Jerry Moran summed up the sorrow felt by his community, stating, “Today we are grieving, and my heart grieves for the lives lost and their loved ones. Please join me in praying for Kansas.” Both Bowser and Moran, clearly representing different political parties, reflect the shared commitment to unity and support for the families affected.

Wichita Mayor Lily Wu, a Libertarian has deep ties to her community, announcing that the Wichita city council, in collaboration with local faith leaders, at noon today, would host a community-wide prayer in Wichita, stating this morning, “At this time, our community needs to come together to support the family members who have been impacted, to come together in honor of those individuals on that flight, and as a council, we will lead in bringing this community together to pray for this community but also move our community to know that there are resources, and as a city, we will have additional resources, especially for staff who have been impacted, and I am again grieving with everyone in our community and those in Washington, DC due to this very tragic incident that happened.”

In a moment like this, it’s crucial to set aside political differences. Leaders across the political spectrum are unified in their calls for prayers and solidarity. The grief of the families who have lost loved ones and the tireless work of first responders should be a reminder that, in times of tragedy, we are all bound together by our shared humanity. Let’s make this tragic incident a lasting example of what happens when we come together—not as Democrats or Republicans, but as people united in grief and hope. Unity and compassion should always be our focus in the face of such sorrow.

For those impacted by this heartbreaking event, American Airlines has established a family assistance hotline at 1-800-679-8215. Additionally, Think American News has launched the “Potomac Collision: Family Assistance Fund” GoFundMe page. We encourage you to contribute and offer your support to the families and friends who have lost loved ones. You can donate below to help provide financial assistance during this difficult time.