DNC Statement on Gun Violence Awareness Month Arrow

DNC Chair Ken Martin released the following statement marking the start of Gun Violence Awareness Month:

"For too long - and in too many neighborhoods - gun violence has ripped apart communities and stolen loved ones from families. It is estimated that more than 44,000 Americans are killed by gun deaths every year, an average of about one fatality every 12 minutes. We cannot, we must not, ever accept this as normal. This month, and always, we grieve alongside all the communities where gun violence has left a tragic mark, including:

• Charleston, South Carolina (2015)
• Las Vegas, Nevada (2017)
• Orlando, Florida (2016)
• Blacksburg, Virginia (2007)
• Newtown, Connecticut (2012)
• Sutherland Springs, Texas (2017)
• El Paso, Texas (2019)
• Uvalde, Texas (2022)
• Parkland, Florida (2018)
• Columbine, Colorado (1999)
• Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (2018)
• Minneapolis, Minnesota (2025)
• Shreveport, Louisiana (2026)
• The additional countless communities that have been affected by gun violence

"Despite the hardened opposition of the gun lobby and those who stand in the way of common-sense gun safety measures, Democrats will continue to pursue proven policies to prevent gun deaths and keep guns out of the hands of those who should not have them. Inaction is itself a choice, which is why, as we honor the lives lost in mass shootings and in the daily toll of gun violence, we resolve to continue our efforts to pass comprehensive gun reforms and keep Americans safe."