Pittsburgh political punks Anti-Flag have responded to a comment that Tuscon, Arizona, gunman Jared Lee Loughner was a fan of their music. The band had the following to say:
It has come to our attention that a purported former classmate of Jared Lee Loughner stated the following about him, “…he was a pot head & into rock like Hendrix, The Doors, Anti-Flag. I haven’t seen him in person since ’07…” This comment has led to some discussion in the media and elsewhere regarding Anti-Flag and what Anti-Flag stands for.
For well over a decade Anti-Flag has endorsed non-violent progressive change and has lobbied for peace, equality, justice, and health care (including mental health care) for all people of America and the world.
Anti-Flag unconditionally condemns the heinous actions of Mr. Loughner and our heartfelt condolences and best wishes go out to every single person affected by Mr. Loughner’s senseless act of violence. Our message is and always has been very clear, violence in any form is unacceptable.
Peace, Anti-Flag