John,

While deaths and injuries from gun violence are declining, too many children and young people are slaughtered or traumatized by firearm-related violence. Death by firearm remains the leading killer of young people, and the impact on survivors, witnesses and communities is immeasurable. We see it in our emergency rooms, we see it in our classrooms, and we see it in our correctional facilities.

Help break the cycle of gun violence by telling Congress to continue funding community violence intervention programs.

Community violence intervention programs are effective. They were funded in last year’s federal spending bill, but this funding could soon end, as Republicans in Congress are seeking to cut spending in the coming weeks.

Help keep these lifesaving programs going by contacting Congress.

Many of you are worried about discipline in the classroom, violence in the ER and safety going to and from work. You see distraught patients and family members. You see traumatized students and those who have learned from the violence around them that their lives are not valued. Too many of you have been wounded yourselves—mentally or physically—by gun violence.

Let’s tackle these challenges head-on and demand Congress fund community violence intervention programs.

As we work to reduce illegal access to firearms through federal and state legislation, prosecute unscrupulous gun dealers and address the underlying causes of violence, we must also work in our communities to help young people being drawn into the violence by fear and anger.

Help keep our communities safe. Tell Congress to support community violence intervention funding.

In unity,
Randi Weingarten
AFT President