Dallas County declares June 6 2025 National Gun Violence Awareness Day

In a recent meeting of the Dallas County Commissioners Court, officials unanimously declared June 6, 2025, as National Gun Violence Awareness Day. This resolution highlights the alarming statistics surrounding gun violence in the United States, where an average of 125 people are killed daily, and over 26,000 are injured each year. In Texas alone, approximately 4,422 individuals die from gun-related incidents annually, with the societal cost of gun violence reaching an estimated $51.3 billion.

The resolution aims to raise awareness about the ongoing public health crisis of gun violence and encourages community members to wear orange on June 6 to honor victims and survivors. The initiative was inspired by the tragic story of Hadiya Pendleton, a victim of gun violence, whose friends began the orange campaign to symbolize the value of human life.

During the meeting, several advocates, including representatives from Moms Demand Action and the Be Smart program, spoke passionately about the need for responsible gun ownership and secure firearm storage. They emphasized that nearly 360 children unintentionally shoot themselves or others each year due to unsecured firearms, underscoring the importance of community engagement in preventing gun violence.

Assistant Chief Christina Smith of the Dallas ISD Police Department echoed the sentiments of the advocates, stressing the need for ongoing education about gun safety beyond just one designated day. She highlighted the importance of local leadership in addressing gun violence and the need for continued advocacy for responsible gun laws.

Scott Spryer, a representative from Giffords Gun Owners for Safety, called for a balance between the right to bear arms and the right to life, urging local leaders to take action against the epidemic of gun violence. He noted that the majority of Texans support reasonable gun laws, yet legislative progress has been slow.

The meeting also addressed the broader implications of gun violence, with discussions touching on the need for community collaboration among law enforcement, health organizations, and civic groups to create safer environments. The court's resolution and the voices of advocates reflect a growing commitment to addressing gun violence as a critical issue affecting public safety in Dallas County.

In addition to the gun violence resolution, the court recognized June 2025 as LGBTQ+ Pride Month, celebrating the resilience and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community while acknowledging the ongoing challenges they face. This dual focus on gun violence prevention and LGBTQ+ rights highlights the court's commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all residents of Dallas County.

As the community prepares for National Gun Violence Awareness Day, the court's actions signal a call to action for residents to engage in meaningful discussions and initiatives aimed at reducing gun violence and promoting safety.