Nearest And Dearest Podcast - Bridging Family Dynamics

Changing Gun Violence

• Julie Rogers • Season 2 • Episode 6

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I am getting so frustrated and angry over gun violence. I have shared with you before about Mental Health Stigma. ( S1E15 & S1E16 ) Yes, people who commit acts of violence with guns to innocent communities most likely have mental health conditions or have a mental health illness. I say that, because many people who deal with mental health concerns may not have a formal diagnosis or a full-fledged illness.
When I decided to speak about gun violence, I came across some articles from the perspective of parents who lost their 17 year old son to the Parkland Florida shooting in 2018. Manuel and Patricia Oliver lost their son Joaquin, alongside 16 others that horrific day on February 14th at Stoneman Douglas High School. Manuel and Patricia started a gun-control nonprofit organization  called Change The Ref.
Their mission statement is "Shifting America's social response to gun violence, by uniting creativity, activism, disruptions, and education." Change The Ref uses art and non-violent organizing to advocate for gun safety regulations, and expose the effects of mass shootings. Their ultimate goal is to give the young generations a voice to advocate for change in the gun control policy.
Links!