Moms Demand urges Johnston County commissioners to declare gun violence awareness day

The Johnston County Board of Commissioners meeting on May 5, 2025, featured a poignant appeal from a representative of Moms Demand Action, a national organization focused on raising awareness about gun violence. The speaker expressed deep disappointment over the board's decision not to approve a proclamation declaring June 6, 2025, as Gun Violence Awareness Day.

The representative highlighted the significance of this day, which aligns with the annual Wear Orange weekend, a movement that honors victims of gun violence. The initiative was inspired by the tragic story of Hadiyah Pendleton, a 15-year-old girl who was shot and killed in Chicago. The color orange symbolizes safety and the value of human life, with the speaker emphasizing its importance in discussions about gun violence.

The speaker pointed out that gun violence is the leading cause of death for children in the United States, North Carolina, and Johnston County, and stressed that conversations about mental health and public safety must include discussions about gun violence. They noted the staggering financial impact of gun violence, costing the U.S. over $500 billion annually, with North Carolina bearing a $19.5 billion burden.

In closing, the representative urged the commissioners to reconsider their decision and proclaim June 6, 2025, as Gun Violence Awareness Day, emphasizing that awareness is the first step toward preventing further tragedies. The meeting underscored the ongoing dialogue about public safety and the need for community engagement in addressing gun violence.