For decades our policymakers have relied on “law and order” rhetoric because criminalization conditions us to assume violence is a problem with “dangerous” individuals, instead of a national epidemic. But make no mistake: gun violence is a public health crisis. 

We are sick and tired of our elected officials directing federal funds to police as a solution to an increase in “crime”. An enormous percentage of relief money distributed for communities to survive and rebound from the pandemic— is being looted. And now, a momentary uptick in gun violence is being exploited by police to increase their power. 

As states and localities continue to receive unrestricted federal funds because of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, we are on the cusp of a groundbreaking opportunity to invest in community-based safety. That’s why Color of Change is boldly calling on Governors across the country to invest in community-based crisis response and violence prevention programs.  

Join us in demanding that our state and local officials prioritize the demands of the people most impacted by this public health crisis. Send a letter to your state Governor today and demand an immediate investment in community safety strategies. This moment requires us to reclaim public safety in the service of transformative justice and healing. 

Here is the Petition:

Dear Governor, 

I am calling on you, in partnership with Color of Change, Fund Peace, and the Invest In Us Gun Violence Prevention Coalition to prioritize funding community-based violence intervention programs with American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. 

We must understand gun violence as a public health crisis and address it with the same urgency as COVID-19.  For decades, Black and Idengenious communities have borne the disproportionate impact of gun violence in this country. That’s why we are calling on you to look at gun violence through a public health lens, analyze root causes, and fund evidence-based community violence prevention programs. 

We believe those closest to the pain must be closest to the power. That’s why we’re imploring you to leverage the expertise of those directly impacted by gun-related trauma. The Invest In us and Fund Peace campaign calls on you to support this bold and necessary investment to end the gun violence epidemic.  

Sincerely,

Your Name