The Impact of Gun Violence on Our Black Brothers and Sisters

Arm killings, like mass shootings, everyday violence, and police shootings, affect everyone in the country. But Black Americans are ten times more likely to die from gun violence than White Americans. According to another study, gun violence reduces life expectancy by about four years for Black Americans more than for others.

This issue extends far beyond mere statistics; it is a painful reality that has torn apart families, communities, and countless lives. It is a crisis that demands our attention, compassion, and concerted efforts to bring about lasting change.

Brutal Gun Violence Faced by Black Brothers and Sisters

The statistics surrounding gun violence within Black communities are quite alarming. Black Americans experience ten times the gun homicides, eighteen times the gun assault injuries, and nearly three times the fatal police shootings compared to their white counterparts.

Trayvon Martin was spending time with his father in the suburban town of Sanford, Florida when he was pursued, confronted, and fatally shot by an armed vigilante. Sasha Johnson, a prominent activist for Black Lives Matter, was shot at a party in South London by a group of four Black men. Renisha McBride, a Ford employee and a cherished daughter, was looking for help after a car accident in suburban Dearborn Heights, Michigan. She knocked on a door and tragically was met with a gunshot.

Trayvon, Sasha, Renisha, and many others, were not victims because of their poverty or other factors. Their unfortunate deaths highlight an uncomfortable truth: they were targeted and shot simply because they were Black.

Impact of Gun Violence in Black Community

On average, 34 Black brothers and sisters are killed by guns daily, with over 110 experiencing non-fatal injuries. Tragically, at least every other day, a Black person falls victim to a fatal police shooting. These gun violence acts have been impacting several aspects of our lives.

1.     Eroding Trust in Law Enforcement

Historically, Black communities have had strained relationships with law enforcement, and incidents of police violence have further eroded trust. High-profile cases of police violence against Black individuals, often captured on camera, have made us stop relying on authorities' help. These incidents, such as the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and countless others, tell a lot about systemic injustice.

Racial profiling worsens the problem by subjecting Black people disproportionately to invasive and discriminatory practices during routine encounters with law enforcement. This not only increases fear but also reinforces negative perceptions of the police. Many Black brothers and sisters are hesitant to report crimes or cooperate with police because they are afraid of being mistreated or retaliated against.

2.     Mental Health and Trauma

America's escalating outbreak of gun violence damages the mental health of thousands of citizens. However, experts say that African Americans experience a different kind of despair in the aftermath of mass shootings. Those directly affected by gun violence and those who witness or hear about it are left traumatized. According to research, crimes involving firearms have more severe mental health consequences than crimes involving other weapons. Gun violence leaves indelible marks on the memory of Black brothers and sisters. It can seriously and permanently alter the health, choices, and lifelong trajectory of children, young people, adults, and the collective community.

How to Prevent Gun Violence
To combat the scourge of gun violence, we can start the following programs:

1.     Violence Intervention Programs

These programs provide comprehensive support to individuals at high risk of gunshot victimization based on community feedback and evidence-based strategies. They effectively reduce gun-related injuries and deaths in communities most at risk.

2.     Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Assistance Funding

Federal VOCA funds can be used to support services for victims and survivors of gun violence. These funds can be used to support existing programs, such as street outreach and hospital-based violence intervention.

3.     Repeal Shoot First Laws

The "Shoot First" or "Stand Your Ground" laws, which allow for the use of lethal force even when a safe retreat is possible, should be reconsidered. These laws encourage armed vigilantism and jeopardize the safety of Black brothers and sisters.

4.     Prevent Gun Trafficking

Strengthening federal gun trafficking laws is crucial to dismantling illegal gun networks. Addressing gun trafficking and straw purchasing can help reduce the flow of firearms onto our streets.

The grim truth is that Black individuals are more likely to experience gun violence, whether through acts of senseless mass shootings, daily incidents of community violence, or encounters with police. The toll this takes on Black communities is immeasurable as they grapple with the loss of loved ones, traumatic injuries, and the constant threat of violence in their neighborhoods. Therefore, we must work collectively to build a safer world for future generations.

Luaac has been actively fighting Black violence by spreading awareness, helping them fight their cases, and supporting our black brothers and sisters' legal battles. You can also join us in this cause by volunteering and donating. To learn more, visit www.luaac.org.