John–

Since I became Everytown's first Director of Latinx Leadership and Community Engagement, I've worked with a dedicated team to ensure that Latinx communities are a part of the conversation about guns.

So when the Uvalde shooting happened in May, we immediately jumped into action. We built relationships with organizations that formed in the aftermath, supported volunteer efforts that happened on the ground, and provided resources to survivors in the community.

But the work we've done this summer is just a fraction of what members of our movement are doing to empower Latinx communities across the United States.

As we celebrate Latinx Heritage Month from September 15-October 15, join me in honoring and uplifting the Latinx volunteers leading the way in the fight to end gun violence—read their stories today.

The U.S. Latinx population is extremely diverse and continues to grow, coming from over 20 countries in North, Central, and South America, each with its own unique languages, cultures, cuisines, and music.

Our communities deserve to thrive—yet we are disproportionately affected by gun violence that takes our lives and leaves lasting trauma.

At Everytown, we've worked to address this crisis by building new relationships with community-based violence intervention groups in places like Los Angeles and Chicago, providing support to communities commemorating the Pulse and El Paso shootings, and building national partnerships with leading Latinx and Hispanic organizations. This month, we're launching listening sessions to make sure our movement meets the needs of Latinx communities and provides them with the tools necessary to organize and demand action.

I'm so proud of the work we've already done—work that wouldn't be possible without the Latinx volunteer leaders from across the country who are passionate, ready, and energized to make a difference.

We still have a lot of work ahead of us, but I know together, we can create a future free from gun violence in all forms, for everyone.

José Alfaro
He/Him/El
Director of Latinx Leadership and Community Engagement
Everytown for Gun Safety