In the Headlines: The Urgent Need for Gun Violence Prevention (June 2025)

Over the past two weeks, several headlines have underscored the urgent need for a coordinated, community-led response to the gun violence crisis in America. These stories highlight the complexity of the issue and the pressing need for continued advocacy, awareness, and action.

On Father’s Day, Sandy Hook Promise co-founder Mark Barden published a powerful editorial in U.S. News & World Report. In it, he calls on fathers across the country to reevaluate how they protect their children, giving tangible steps to improve firearm safety. Mark reminds us that simple, preventative measures can save lives, especially when it comes to youth suicides and accidental shootings.

Just days before, a devastating act of political violence in Minnesota claimed the lives of lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, and injured Sen. John Hoffman and his wife. Hortman was a vocal advocate for background checks, red flag laws, and community-based violence prevention. Her leadership and legacy are a painful loss, and a tragic example of how gun violence affects people in all levels of society.

In Michigan, a shooting at a local church last Sunday could have led to greater tragedy had it not been for the intervention of alert staff. Though the shooter’s motives remain unclear, early reports suggest a possible mental health crisis. The incident highlights the deep anxiety many communities now live with—but also the benefit of proactive, community-driven prevention strategies, like Sandy Hook Promise's programs.

Meanwhile, a new study published in JAMA and covered by The New York Times draws attention to another layer of this crisis: youth mental health. The research found that children who reported “addictive” use of technology were at a higher risk for suicidal behavior. The study underscores the growing call for tech companies to take more responsibility for the impact of their platforms, especially when it comes to young users.

As sobering as these headlines are, they reinforce what we already know: gun violence is not inevitable…It’s preventable. With informed action, smarter policy and strong community programs, we can make a difference.

At Artist For Action, we believe that art is a catalyst for awareness and change. As a partner organization to Sandy Hook Promise, our coalition brings together musicians, creators, and cultural leaders who are using their voices to support proven solutions to gun violence. Together, we can inspire action—and save lives.

Visit artistforaction.com for resources and news.