Last week’s mass shootings are horrific reminders of how essential it is that we fight for a future free from gun violence. We pray for all the victims of gun violence as well as their loved ones. The effect of gun violence on our communities is pervasive, long-lasting, and impacts everyone uniquely.
Today, June 4, is National Gun Violence Awareness Day, followed by Wear Orange Weekend on June 5 and 6. These days provide an opportunity to honor survivors of gun violence and raise awareness about this public health crisis. Wear Orange has outlined a few ways you can show support, learn more.
The Numbers (United States)
– Every day, more than 100 Americans are killed with guns and more than 230 are shot and wounded. These survivors are faced with a life-long process of physical and emotional healing.
– Firearms are the leading cause of death for children and teens in the United States. Every year, more than 3,000 children and teens are shot and killed, and another 15,000 are shot and wounded – an average of 9 children and teens shot and killed and 42 shot and wounded every day.
– Gun suicide claims the lives of over 23,000 people in the United States each year.
– Access to a gun triples the risk of death by suicide.
– Access to a gun makes it 5 times more likely that a woman will die at the hands of a domestic abuser.
Source: Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund®
The Numbers (Georgia)
– Gun deaths have increased 25% from 2010 to 2019, compared to a 17% increase nationwide. This represents an increase of 472 gun deaths over this period in Georgia.
– In Georgia, the rate of gun suicide increased 16% and gun homicide increased 47% from 2010 to 2019, compared to a 13% increase and 26% increase nationwide, respectively.
Source: Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund®
Resources
– Responsible Gun Ownership