Thread by @wstephenv

A friend wrote me describing the feeling of devastation and helplessness as we fall back into the same arguments, the same anger, the same thoughts and prayers, the same, the same. Then she challenged me: what are five things individuals can do to make change on gun violence?/1

Here’s what I said:
1. Support companies who are taking steps to make communities safer and end gun violence. @Dicks, @llbean and @Toms are great examples. And don’t forget the @wnba wears orange. Plenty of others too, find them out. /2

2. Support local organizations working in communities to make change. Two of my favorites are @NCST_newark, a violence interruptor program, and @guitarsoverguns, a youth program that provides music education and mentorship in communities heavily impacted by gun violence. /3

@NCST_newark @guitarsoverguns 3 Vote locally. We get caught up in the game of red vs blue nationally, but local elections matter. Tomorrow, my city council is voting on whether to fund community violence intervention programs with ARP $. Learn who makes gun violence prevention a priority at all levels.

4. Learn about gun safety through programs like #BeSmart. If you are a gun owner, store your firearm safely and securely, separate from ammo. Ask playdates whether there are firearms in a house and if so, whether they’re locked and secure. /5

5. Give blood. /6

But most of all, act with compassion. It is frustrating to see inaction, to feel anger and despair, to be profoundly affected by something, yet feel paralyzed. But keep going. Each step matters in this long, long walk. #NotOneMore