The issue of gun violence in our nation is multifaceted and complex. However, we know for certain that inaction will result in more children being harmed by gun violence. The issue itself is non-partisan although improving the safety of children from gun violence has long been part of the Democratic Party’s platform. We believe, based on a significant body of evidence, that enacting gun safety regulations will reduce gun violence. There is no evidence that arming teachers will accomplish this.
However, it is not the party nor elected officials but the surviving children from Parkland, FL who have become the face of strength and courage in addressing this issue. In their honor, and for all the children who have died needlessly to gun violence over the years, this week’s event update will focus on what you can do. There are organizations you can donate to, marches you can join, and ways for you to increase awareness. The list is not inclusive; however, hopefully, you will find something here that interests you.
- Donations and/or petitions to support organizations with a focus on reducing gun violence
Everytown for Gun Safety:https://everytown.org/
Americans for Responsible Solutions – Gabby Giffords & Mark Kelly –http://americansforresponsiblesolutions.org/about/
Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense –http://momsdemandaction.org/
Marylanders to Prevent Gun Violence –www.mdpvg.org
- Donations to victims and the families of the Parkland shooting
Broward County Public Schools has a 501C3 Education Foundation that is raising funds to provide financial support to the victims and their families of the tragedy at MSDHS. It will take millions of dollars to support these families’ physical and mental health needs.https://www.gofundme.com/stonemandouglasvictimsfund
- How many more? March 5, 11:00 AM
On Monday, March 5th, while both chambers of Congress are in session, a pair of shoes for every life lost to gun violence this year will be placed before the US Capitol building so our elected legislators can see the true cost of their inaction.https://www.facebook.com/events/1145963225599702/
- Take it to the House (Let’s Talk & Act on Guns in Maryland), March 6, noon
The Legislative Branch is often referred to as “The People’s Branch” because of the power we have in influencing legislation. Let’s take all the energy being stirred up over gun reform right now AND USE IT! On Tuesday, March 6th, there will be hearings in the House Judiciary Committee regarding several laws being proposed in the Maryland State legislature surrounding guns, including a law being proposed to allow guns in schools. https://www.facebook.com/events/538440719876633/
- Women’s March Youth Enough! National School Walkout Day, March 14, 10:00 AM
Women’s March Youth EMPOWER is calling for students, teachers, school administrators, parents and allies to take part in a #NationalSchoolWalkout for 17 minutes at 10am across every time zone on March 14, 2018 to protest Congress’ inaction to do more than tweet thoughts and prayers in response to the gun violence plaguing our schools and neighborhoods. (Please note teachers may be unable to participate due to contractual requirements). https://www.actionnetwork.org/event_campaigns/enough-national-school-walkout
- March for our Lives, March 24, 10:00 AM
On March 24, the kids and families of March For Our Lives will meet on the Washington Mall to demand that their lives and safety become a priority and that we end this epidemic of mass school shootings. Join us in DC or march in your own community. There are seats available on chartered local buses. Activist individuals like you – not the party, are chartering these buses. But we may be able to help you. For questions regarding busesplease email info@baltimorecountydems.com
For the list of sister city marches:https://www.facebook.com/pg/marchforourlives/events/https://www.facebook.com/events/157161255003456/
https://www.marchforourlives.com/
- National High School Walkout, April 20
After multiple violent gun attacks in high schools with no change is legislation,#nationalschoolwalkout has emerged. On April 20th, the anniversary of the Columbine shooting, the youth of America will leave school and wear orange in protest of the ongoing gun violence. You may choose to adopt your profile with a frame from this page as a way to increase awareness. There is also a petition you can sign.
Maryland United for Peace and Justice 