The Fourth of July is usually a time when many Americans gather to celebrate the birthday of the United States. Many Americans gather with family and friends to enjoy outdoor cookouts or watch fireworks displays. Unfortunately, the residents of the city of Kerrville, Texas have been forced to deal with the unthinkable. On July 4, 2025, the Guadalupe River began to rise to heights up to 26 feet due to torrential rain. The rain caused flooding which claimed the lives of over 120 people, with over 150 others being unaccounted for. Twenty-seven of those lost because of the flooding were counselors and campers at Camp Mystic, a private Christian summer camp for girls that was established in 1926. Many of these victims were young girls, eliciting swarms of compassion from anyone with a pulse.
Conservative talk show host Charlie Kirk made the comment on his “Real America’s Voice” program that “the death toll would not have been as high if it wasn’t for DEI”. DEI is the acronym for diversity, equity, and inclusion. It is an initiative used by businesses based on meritocracy, regardless of race, creed, or gender. It’s not clear what connection Kirk is trying to make here, considering that the torrential rain caused a catastrophic flood that could not have been contained by any group of human beings. Kirk’s assertion proves that point, as his comment never suggests a way to better prepare for such a catastrophic event where all lives are spared.
This isn’t the time for inserting politics into this tragedy or playing the blame game. The death toll is unfortunately going to rise even further as of this writing. It’s time for America to come together to offer condolences and tangible assistance to the victims’ surviving families and friends. Kerrville city leaders will have to somehow stay strong and develop a plan to resurrect their city. Other cities across America that could be vulnerable to a similar disaster need to take precautions to ensure that their respective communities will be protected. We can only hope that Kerrville can somehow keep the memories of those that were lost alive as they try to pick up the pieces.