Hi John,
Our names are Junya and Jax, and we’re March For Our Lives organizers based in Palatine, Illinois.
This past week, we had the privilege of attending the 2025 AAPI Against Gun Violence Convening — a powerful gathering of gun violence prevention and civil rights leaders working to confront the growing threat of hate-fueled violence in our communities.
Too often, national conversations around gun violence overlook the voices of those most directly impacted. That’s why having the opportunity to share our stories, connect with fellow organizers, and be part of a broader movement for justice meant so much to us.
You can read more about our experience below — but first, we hope you’ll consider making a donation of $20.25 to support March For Our Lives and youth organizers like us who are fighting every day to end gun violence.
At the convening, I (Junya) had the chance to speak on a panel titled “Generation Lockdown: Growing Up American, Surrounded by Guns.” I talked about what it means to come of age in a country where gun violence — from school shootings to hate-fueled attacks — isn’t just a fear, but a formative part of our identity.
For many in the AAPI community, there’s a heartbreaking question we’re forced to ask: Is gun violence just part of what it means to be American?
Hate exists in every corner of the world. But in the U.S., weak gun laws make hate deadly. Today, anti-AAPI violence is fueled by racist, xenophobic rhetoric from those with the loudest platforms — and armed with easy access to firearms, turning hate into tragedy.
Each year, more than 25,000 hate crimes in the United States involve a gun — that’s an average of 69 every single day.
Gun violence is now the leading cause of death for young people in this country. And within AAPI communities, that threat feels deeply personal. 57% of Asian parents say they worry their children will be killed by gun violence, compared to just 33% of white parents. That disparity says everything about who feels protected in this country, and who doesn’t.
That’s why convenings like this one matter. Because while our political leaders continue to fall short, it’s young people — especially organizers and survivors — who are stepping up, building solidarity, and fighting for real safety in every community.
Our movement is youth-led, multiracial, and rooted in justice. We're mobilizing young people across the country to demand a future where all of our communities are safe — no matter our race, zip code, or background.
Thank you,
Junya and Jax
Co-Leads, March For Our Lives Palatine, IL
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