Investing in Gun Violence Reduction and Why It Matters!

Gun violence has long been an issue in communities across this country. It is the leading cause of death for children ages 1-19 across the country, with higher rates among BIPOC children.  Recent mass shootings have surfaced public concern, but the problem is more complex. Untreated, gun violence emanates across communities, manifesting as generational trauma.   Our response to gun violence has been inadequate, inequitable, and has left communities of color without needed supports. Gun violence has negative compounding effects because it serves as an excuse to further police/suppress communities, while leading to economic decline.  This workshop will explore how we must reframe our thinking by investing in this issue as a necessary component of economic and health vitality of communities.