John,

There are no words that can adequately encompass the tragedy in Uvalde seven months ago. As a gun violence survivor, it's hard for me to even think about it.

As someone whose own mother was murdered with a firearm, my heart is with the parents and loved ones of the 19 children and two teachers who were murdered on that terrible day in May — during this time of year, the sense of loss is particularly palpable. There are missing gifts under the tree, empty chairs around the dinner table as families gather for the holidays. It is heartbreaking and it is unconscionable to allow it to remain our reality. 

I'm tired of offering condolences whenever gun violence ends a life prematurely. I'm tired of reading about phone calls from terrified children caught in the middle of a mass shooting, pleading for help and begging not to die. I'm tired of vigils and moments of silence.

The spinelessness and inaction of NRA-backed politicians like Ted Cruz and Greg Abbott is dumbfounding. Seven months after Uvalde, we still don't have expanded background checks nor an assault weapons ban. But with gun violence prevention champions entering the Senate, we have an opportunity to make real change. That's why I'm writing to you today, John: I need your help to STOP this epidemic of gun violence and we only have a few days left to raise the money that will help us do it.

I want to live in a world in which our children don't have to worry about being shot and killed at school, where parents don't fear losing their kids to gun violence. We can only make this a reality together. Will you make a donation of $5 or more today to help Brady defeat the gun lobby and pass life-saving gun safety legislation?

Thank you so much,

Liz Dunning
Gun Violence Survivor and Vice President of Development, Brady