The Jersey City Council will introduce a resolution later this month designating the first Friday in June “National Gun Violence Awareness Day.”
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
They made the announcement on the first day of National Wear Orange Weekend, a national movement dedicated to raising awareness around gun violence prevention in America.
“Recognizing the urgency and importance of addressing gun violence, I am proud to support this resolution to designate the first Friday in June as National Gun Violence Awareness Day. Together, we can raise awareness, honor victims, and work towards creating a safer community for all,” Council President Joyce Watterman said in a statement.
Ward E Councilman James Solomon and Ward F Councilman Frank “Educational” Gilmore sponsored the resolution in 2022.
“Gun violence is an epidemic in America, and we’ve encountered its devastation right here in Jersey City,” Solomon began.
“National Gun Violence Awareness Day is an opportunity for all of us to honor the thousands of lives lost to gun violence each year – and it is also a call to action for government officials and community leaders at home and across the country to link arms and end this national scourge. We have the power to stop gun violence in America; what we need is political will.”
The resolution will be on the June 12th agenda and appears poised to pass unanimously since the full governing body spoke in favor.
“As a Latino councilman serving Jersey City for 11 years, I see firsthand the urgent need for stronger enforcement measures and a renewed focus on education to combat the rise in senseless deaths from irresponsible firearm use and violence,” added Councilman-at-Large Daniel Rivera.
“By educating our community on the proper handling and storage of firearms, we can drastically reduce accidents and misuse, ensuring gun owners understand the heavy responsibility that comes with firearm possession.”
In 2024, there have been almost 200 mass shootings and over 2,000 children killed as a result of gun violence.
“As someone who has personally been affected by gun-violence, I feel it is our responsibility as a council to do as much as we can to raise awareness for common-sense gun violence prevention measures that will save lives,” noted Ward B Councilwoman Mira Prinz-Arey.
“Co-sponsoring this resolution is one way we can act, because thoughts and prayers are not enough.”
It’s a good idea.to teach people that don’t know how to store a gun properly n use a safety lock on the gun n most of all keep it far away from children I carry my weapon but I keep it safe
“Designating” or “recognizing”? I don’t think the Jersey City council can designate a national day of anything.
Recognizing is fine, but it’s really just one tiny step above “thoughts and prayers”.
Unfortunately, actually doing anything will bring the ire of the rabid 2A crowd.
Remember when Healy tried to limit gun sales to one a month or require stolen guns to be reported within 48 hours?
Minor stuff to be sure, but the NRA sent their shills to “fight tyranny”.