Statement from YWCA Minneapolis on the Assassination of Former State Representative Melissa Hortman and Related Acts of Violence
June 16, 2025
YWCA Minneapolis is outraged and heartbroken by the assassination of former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman, the killing of her husband, Mark Hortman, and the attempted assassination of State Senator John A. Hoffman and his wife, Yvette Hoffman. We extend our deepest condolences to their families and loved ones, and we grieve alongside the many Minnesotans mourning this unimaginable loss.
It is hard to find words in the face of such horrific violence. This targeted attack on public servants and their families was not only an act of brutality—it was a direct assault on our democracy. Our state has long prided itself on respectful civic engagement and public service rooted in the common good. That legacy makes this moment not only deeply painful, but also a call to confront what this violence means for our community and our future.
Violence—especially political violence—has no place in a just and equitable society. We condemn this act unequivocally.
Melissa Hortman was a fierce and selfless advocate for children, working families, mothers, women’s reproductive rights, gun violence prevention, voting rights and uplifting Minnesota’s most marginalized communities. Her leadership was defined by her willingness to speak out in the face of adversity and a relentless focus on passing impactful legislation. She cared more about shining a light on critical issues than seeking the spotlight herself.
One of her strongest attributes as a legislator was her dedication to bringing people together to solve problems. In 2017, during a debate on a bill to increase penalties for protesters blocking freeways, several female legislators of color were speaking out against the bill. Hortman, then the House Minority Leader, noticed that some of her male colleagues left the chamber instead of listening to the debate. Hortman called them out, saying, “I hate to break up the 100 percent white male card game in the retiring room, but I think this is an important debate.” Hortman declined to apologize for her comments, explaining that she was “really tired of watching women of color, in particular, being ignored.”
Hortman’s legacy reminds us that leadership is not about status – it's about showing up and speaking out.
For more than 130 years, YWCA Minneapolis has been on the front lines of justice, showing up and speaking out, and responding to violence and inequity with courage, compassion and action. We opened our doors to provide support to the community when the streets of Minneapolis erupted after the murder of George Floyd. We spoke out when the rights of women and children were being torn away. And on Saturday, as 80,000 Minnesotans joined in protest, we stood in solidarity with all who refused to be silenced in the face of hate.
At YWCA Minneapolis, we believe in the power of community to reject hatred and extremism and we rise for justice, dignity and peace. This is not just our mission—it is our moral responsibility. In moments like this, our work to eliminate racism, empower women and girls, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all becomes even more urgent.
We will therefore move forward with resolve—caring for one another, standing up against hate and remaining grounded in our shared vision for a community where everyone can live free from fear.
Shelley Carthen Watson, President and CEO, YWCA Minneapolis