Gun Violence Awareness

Gun violence is epidemic in America, and it is a major public health issue. Every year, more then 45,000 Americans are killed by guns, and approximately 97,000 more are shot and wounded. In addition, gun violence is the number one cause of death for American children. The situation is dire, but there are strategies and organizations working to change these statistics. This guide offers some introductory resources on topics related to gun violence in America.

Source: Everystat.org

Advocacy surrounding gun violence has shifted, and the terminology that's used is important. Advocates no longer talk about "gun control," they discuss "gun safety," both because gun owners are integral to comprehensive strategies to eradicate gun violence, and because so much of gun violence is tied to accidental shootings. Implementing permitting requirements and safety training are just a couple ways to minimize accidents with firearms.

"Every day, more than 300 people are directly impacted by gun violence in the United States. Gun Violence Awareness Month was created [in 2014] to draw attention to this tragic reality and demand life-saving change."
Source: BradyUnited.org

The Souls Shot Portrait Project uses the transformative power of art to bring an end to gun violence. Artists, working with families, create portraits to honor their loved ones who have been lost to gun violence. The goal of the project is to spur communities to action by telling the personal stories of victims through art.
Source: The Souls Shot Portrait Project