CONNECTICUT (WABC) – Saturday marks 12 years since one of the deadliest mass shootings in American history.

On December 14, 2012, a gunman opened fire at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. The shooting killed 20 first graders and six educators.

“The tragedy that occurred on this day 12 years ago is one of the most horrific and heartbreaking events in Connecticut history, and we owe it to those we lost, as well as their families and loved ones, to keep their memories alive by “We want to be a source of love, healing, joy and humanity not just on this anniversary but every day,” Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont said in a statement.

Meanwhile, all flags in the state will be lowered to half-staff to remember and honor the victims.

President Joe Biden issued his own statement on the anniversary of the shooting, saying in part: “Jill and I continue to grieve this unimaginable loss and continue to pray for the families of the victims and others traumatized by this senseless violence.” The president also called on Congress to take action to prevent gun violence in schools.

More than a decade after the shooting, many of the Sandy Hook survivors and victim families have become leading voices in the national debate about school safety and gun law reform.

The 12-year mark also comes just months after several Sandy Hook survivors opened up to GMA about their memories of the shooting and their plans for the future after they graduate from high school.

RELATED | Sandy Hook survivors share memories and future plans before graduation

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