Gun Violence Awareness
This year June 3, 2022 has been designated National Gun Violence Awareness Day, also known as #WearOrange Day. Gun violence is a social justice issue that impacts everyone. Recent tragedies have made the fight against gun violence more important than ever. Your voice is needed.
If you’d like to show your solidarity with victims of gun violence and the communities impacted by this public health crisis, here are some ways to participate in #WearOrange Day:
Wear something orange.
Share a photo of yourself or loved ones in orange attire and on social media with a sentence about why you #WearOrange.
Spread awareness and build support by tagging gun violence prevention organizations and elected officials.
Other actions you can take:
Contact your representatives and demand that they support effective gun violence prevention legislation
Please note, that it's normal to be overwhelmed and exhausted by all the emotions brought on from recent violent events. It's okay if you choose not to observe today by wearing orange or participating in other actions. Survivors, victims’ loved ones and members of communities where violence occurs can experience PTSD and other mental health concerns. Those who don't directly experience gun violence can still experience intense grief, stress, and anger, particularly when reports of shootings inundate local, national and global news cycles.
The best thing you can do for yourself--today, or any day--is check in on how you're doing emotionally, and seek support. Here are some helpful resources:
The #WearOrange campaign started in honor of #HadiyaPendleton, a 15-year-old who was shot and killed in 2013. In 2015 Hadiya’s loved ones wore orange to commemorate her life. Wear Orange is now observed every June to honor victims (both fatal and nonfatal) of gun violence and pledge support to ending violence committed by firearms. Visit @HadiyasPromise and @Everytown for more information.