John,

California has experienced three mass shootings in 48 hours. In Monterey Park, Half Moon Bay, and my hometown of Oakland, this senseless gun violence has left 20 people dead, multiple people injured, and families and friends, neighborhoods and communities in grief and anguish.

My deepest condolences go to the families and loved ones of the victims, and I pray for a full and speedy recovery for those injured. But faith and prayer without action is meaningless.

As one of the most forceful advocates for a total assault weapons ban, waiting periods, background checks and age restrictions, as well as a proud representative of one of the most diverse communities in California, my top priority is the safety and well-being of every family that I am privileged to serve. That is why last year I met with a group of brave gun violence survivors – I listened as they talked about the trauma visited upon them, their families and their communities, as they were simply trying to go about their everyday lives.  

Gun violence is responsible for more than 40,000 deaths each year. Let’s be clear: This is a public health crisis in our country, and no community should fear being targeted.

Our families and children, who have died due to gun violence, had a right to live. 

I will never stop fighting to ensure a better future for you and your family, including taking action so that we can save countless lives from senseless gun violence.

I’d love it if you could join me in honoring those who suffered from gun violence by donating to either Youth ALIVE! or Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California (AJSOCAL).

Youth ALIVE! is an Oakland-based organization. Their mission is to break the cycle of violence and uplift a thriving community of leaders rooted in Oakland and beyond through prevention, intervention, healing and advocacy. Click here to donate to Youth ALIVE! >>

Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California (AJSOCAL) proudly supports and advocates for Asian American Justice and could use your help now more than ever. Click here to donate to AJSOCAL >>

I hope you will join me as we continue this vital work together through the coming months. 

Warmest regards,

Barbara Lee