When we hear on the news that another shooting has taken place, that more innocent people have lost their lives without any sense, our stomachs twist with incomprehension and anger.
What is it that we as a society need to reflect on and learn from these events?
How are these shootings connected to the increasing dehumanization we witness?
How are social inequalities connected to this violence?
What do we have to reevaluate to plant seeds of community and cooperation?
We are devastated by the recent string of mass shootings that have taken place in California in recent days, especially so close to home. Gun violence continues to plague our communities, robbing us of our sense of safety. We are overwhelmed with sadness to hear of the shootings in California in the past weeks. As we mourn the passing of these valued members of our community, we must also come together to support their families and loved ones during this difficult time.
What we ask our allies to do:
Give to community organizations helping those directly affected by these devastating acts of violence.
- San Francisco Foundations’s philanthropic advisors curated this giving guide of local and national organizations dedicated to imagining and building safer communities.
- Puente, an organization dedicated to furthering equity in the San Mateo County coast side.
- ALAS (Ayudando a Latinas Soñar), an organization that furthers social wellness through culturally-specific programming for Latine communities on the coast.
As we grieve the loss of our community members due to senseless gun violence, we stand in solidarity with those affected and call on us all to advocate for stricter gun control measures to protect innocent lives.
Let us all, as a community, unlearn the habits that divide and harm and strive to heal and reach for new horizons. Though pain may linger, let it be our guide towards growth and understanding. We are one human family, united in our quest for equity and wellbeing for all. Let us strive to promote practices of unity and embrace the strength of our community.
