There have been 19 additional mass shootings in the United States since 21 people — mostly children — were killed in Uvalde, Texas on May 24th. This newsletter edition, our team wanted to take some time to listen, think and talk about the problem of gun violence plaguing the United States.
Like many other Americans, we are devastated by the loss of so many lives and saddened by the inaction that helps perpetuate gun violence.
We believe this issue transcends political parties. We are dedicated to seeking solutions, and the urgency of this epidemic facing us demands that we take action. From some of our team members at +Media, here are steps you can take today to help end gun violence in the U.S.:
From Julie —
I founded +Media because we need an easy bridge for people who want to cross from "being aware" of problems to solving problems. We are well aware of gun violence in this country. We MUST take action to stop it. Small steps, in aggregate, can make great progress. Pressure your senator to pass the two stalled bills in the Senate — The Enhanced Background Checks Act and Bipartisan Background Checks Act. Visit this link for help with contacting your senator:
https://www.senate.gov/general/contacting
From Anna —
As a mother, I will always consider situations from a parent’s perspective. Visit this link to join a movement of mothers fighting for public safety measures that protect people from gun violence.
From an early age, our children should have easy access to counselors and programs that aim to address issues in their lives outside of school. Public schools need more funds and professionally trained school staff. Visit these links to help end gun violence in schools:
https://www.sandyhookpromise.org
https://www.childrensdefense.org
As a nation, we should have a federal gun law that is enforced equally in every state that prohibits civilians from openly carrying firearms, enforces stricter mental health evaluation for law enforcement personnel and cracks down on the flow of illegal firearms. Visit these links for a comprehensive approach to preventing gun violence:
https://www.bradyunited.org/the-brady-plan
https://www.amnestyusa.org/issues/gun-violence/
From Eseohe —
Gun violence is the leading cause of death among children and teens in the United States and the median age of school shooters is 16. It’s important to teach our children healthy ways of expressing their feelings and to give them access to emotional support.
If you are a young person and need help, Jed Foundation’s Mental Health Resource Center shows teens and young adults how they can support one another, overcome challenges, and make a successful transition to adulthood.
If you are a caregiver to a young person struggling with their mental help, visit this link for support: https://ymhproject.org/parent-support-network/
May was National Mental Health Awareness Month and our focus on mental health must continue as stigma surrounding mental health is still common. Visit these links for mental health education and outreach:
For comprehensive research and resources on ending gun violence in America, visit this link: https://www.everytown.org/
From Barbara —
I read Kristof's piece on gun reforms the other day in the New York Times. He said that he had written it back in 2017. This shows that we haven't made any progress. What can you do? Vote! Visit this link to vote in the next election:
Visit these links to help build the political power of young people:
From Teresa —
I personally feel frustrated by the lack of action to prevent gun violence and heartbroken every time I hear about another mass shooting. This is one nonprofit you can support that is working to end gun violence through education and political action:
https://www.stophandgunviolence.org/
From Sarah —
Talking honestly about our fears and concerns is a start. Visit this link to join a facilitated conversation on gun violence: https://www.inclusivv.co