John, the deadly intersection of domestic violence and gun violence has only worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In recent months, there has been a sharp increase in requests to many domestic violence hotlines as well as text and chat platforms across the country.1 Gun sales are surging, which has overwhelmed the background check system and increased the odds of domestic abusers obtaining guns.2 And as research has found, loss of employment,3 fear of separation from family, and increased abusive behavior are all predictors of intimate partner homicide.4
John, these facts are harrowing. But there are proven solutions to this crisis, ones which a Gun Sense Majority in Congress and the White House would enact. They would pass laws that keep firearms out of the hands of domestic abusers, such as closing the loophole that allows abusive dating partners to have guns. By disrupting abusers' access to guns, these laws would save lives.
This Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we want to remind you that the crisis of domestic violence and gun violence in our country is on the ballot. If we're going to address this crisis, we need to elect people who support common-sense gun safety.
As we approach Election Day and the end of the election, take action by volunteering virtually or safely in-person to help elect Gun Sense Candidates up and down the ballot.
Thank you for being a part of this movement, and thank you for taking the time to learn about this important issue.
Becky George
Senior Advisor, External Engagement and Programs
Everytown for Gun Safety Victory Fund
P.S. If you or someone you know is being mistreated or hurt by a partner, reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline available 24/7 by calling 1-800-799-7233 or if you’re unable to speak safely, you can chat online at thehotline.org
1. "Domestic Violence Calls Increase Nationwide as Americans Shelter in Place". Everytown for Gun Safety. March 26 2020.
2. "How COVID-19 Has Made a Federal Background Check Loophole Even Deadlier". Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. April 13 2020.
3. "Economic Distress and Intimate Partner Violence". National Institute of Justice. January 4 2009.
4. "NOTICE: COVID-19 and Firearms". The National Resource Center on Domestic Violence and Firearms. March 19 2020.
