Friend,

We did it! Today, the House passed $5 billion for community violence intervention as part of the $2.2 trillion “Build Back Better Act” social spending package!

We fought hard for this. This is a huge and much-needed investment towards ending gun violence in our communities to make them stronger.

Today is a historic day and a huge step forward in our work toward ending gun violence in America. For the first time ever, $5 billion of federal dollars are going towards treating gun violence like the public health crisis it is. With these critical investments, communities across the country will have the resources to reduce gun violence using community empowerment and public health approaches, beyond the lens of crime prevention. By doing so, we can save more lives, prevent additional violence and help survivors and communities heal.

We have worked tirelessly over the last five years to advocate for strong investments in these programs, and we appreciate President Biden and Democrats in Congress’ dedication to this issue. Community violence intervention programs have a track record of success in cities and states across the country.

We also want to give a big shout out to all our partners from the Invest In Us and Fund Peace Coalitions that advocated, organized, and fought hard for years to reach this moment! We are grateful for the federal effort made by the Biden Administration to prioritize and make our communities safer.

We urge the Senate to pass this legislation without delay and send it to President Biden’s desk. The well-being of Black and brown communities depends on these programs - there is no time to delay.

Stay in the fight with us and donate $55 to help us finish the job in the Senate. We can’t do this work without you.

Greg Jackson,

Executive Director

Community Justice Action Fund