Boulder County commissioners read the county’s 2025 Gun Violence Awareness and Prevention Month proclamation and used the moment to address the community response after a recent attack on the Pearl Street Mall.

Gloria Handyside of the commissioners’ office introduced the proclamation and read its text, saying the county recognizes June as a time to "raise awareness of the ongoing harm of gun violence" and to encourage partnerships across local, state and federal governments. The proclamation cited national statistics and recent state legislation, naming House Bill 25-1062, House Bill 25-1133 and Senate Bill 2053 as examples of recent state action mentioned in the proclamation text.

Commissioners and staff connected the proclamation to recent local events. Commissioner Loicherme, acknowledging the "terrible antisemitic terror attack on Pearl Street," thanked county staff and statewide leaders for their response and urged the community to "resist the anger and the temptation ... to fight violence with violence and really lean into fighting violence with love." Handyside said stronger gun policy and community partnership can save lives and noted that firearm-related deaths include suicide, homicide and accidental shootings. The proclamation also encouraged residents to observe National Gun Violence Awareness Day on June 6 and to participate in Wear Orange weekend.

Why it matters: Commissioners framed the proclamation as part of broader prevention work and a community response to local trauma. The item combined formal recognition with a public request for unity and nonviolent responses following an attack that local leaders characterized as antisemitic.

Details: The proclamation mentions Boulder County’s 2022 ordinances supporting gun violence prevention and thanked state lawmakers for recent legislation that county staff said included changes to sentencing for firearms theft and restrictions on certain rapid-fire devices, among other provisions. Commissioners also acknowledged county staff who mobilized to support the community in the wake of the Pearl Street attack, and encouraged residents to seek and offer support to those affected.

What’s next: County communications staff said it will share the proclamation and Wear Orange weekend information through county channels. Commissioners asked staff to continue supporting staff wellness and community resources as needed.