Vice President Harris delivers a poignant speech against gun violence at the site of the Parkland school shooting.
In a powerful address at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, Vice President Kamala Harris took a stand against gun violence. Standing amidst the blood-stained halls of the school, where 17 lives were tragically lost in a mass shooting in 2018, Harris delivered a resounding message.
The Call for Action
Harris emphasized the urgent need for red flag laws across the nation. These laws empower authorities to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed high-risk, preventing potential acts of violence. The Vice President’s visit to the site served as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence on our communities.
A Historic Initiative
During her visit, Harris announced the launch of the National Extreme Risk Protection Order Resource Center. This groundbreaking initiative, funded by the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act and operated by the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions, aims to support states in implementing red flag laws. The center will provide training and technical assistance to localities, ensuring effective enforcement.
A Plea to States
With unwavering resolve, Harris challenged every state to pass red flag laws. Currently, 29 states lack such legislation, while only six of the 21 states with existing laws utilize the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act funding for their implementation. The Vice President urged leaders to learn from the advocacy of Parkland families who turned tragedy into action.
As the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School building faces demolition, its memory will endure. Kamala Harris’s commitment to gun safety echoes through these blood-stained walls, inspiring change and resilience.