February 1-7, 2022: Gun Violence Survivors Week

WHEREAS, according to Everytown Research, more than 37,000 Americans are killed in acts of gun violence and 84,000 more are shot and wounded every year; and,

 

WHEREAS, by early February, more Americans are killed with guns than are killed in our peer countries in an entire calendar year; and,

 

WHEREAS, a gun violence survivor is anyone who has personally experienced gun violence, whether having witnessed an act of gun violence, been threatened or wounded with a gun, or having cared for someone injured or killed; and,

 

WHEREAS, forms of gun violence can include, but are not limited to: gun suicides, gun homicides, domestic violence involving a gun, and unintentional shootings; and,

 

WHEREAS, according to Everytown Research, 58 percent of American adults or someone they care for has experienced gun violence in their lifetime, demonstrating the reach and impact gun violence has in communities across America; and,

 

WHEREAS, firearms are the leading cause of death for children and teens; and,

 

WHEREAS, communities across our state and nation are working to end the senseless violence by advocating for common-sense gun safety legislation; and,

 

WHEREAS, by commemorating National Gun Violence Survivors Week on February 1 to February 7, communities across America will raise awareness about gun violence and honor the lives stolen by gun violence; and,

 

WHEREAS, we renew our commitment to reduce gun violence and pledge to do all we can to keep firearms out of the wrong hands and encourage responsible gun ownership to help keep our communities safe;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim February 1-7, 2022, as Gun Violence Survivors Week in Michigan.