(WNY News Now) – New York – Governor Kathy Hochul declared June as Gun Violence Awareness Month in New York State, directing significant landmarks to be illuminated orange on June 7 to mark National Gun Violence Awareness Day. This event also heralded the beginning of Wear Orange Weekend, a national campaign to raise awareness about gun violence.
“We have made great strides in our mission to reduce gun violence in communities most affected by this national public health crisis,” Governor Hochul stated. “I am proud to continue to support efforts to raise awareness and reduce gun crimes across the state. Thank you to our state agencies, law enforcement, and our community partners who are helping ensure that we have the resources and support we need to get firearms off the streets and to keep all New Yorkers safe.”
United Effort Against Gun Violence
Lieutenant Governor Delgado emphasized the state’s proactive approach: “In New York, we’re taking direct action to get guns off our streets and build safer neighborhoods across the state. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners and community members to find meaningful ways to address the gun violence epidemic and move our state forward.”
Governor Hochul’s FY 2025 Budget has allocated substantial funding for a comprehensive plan to address gun violence, recognizing the importance of a multifaceted approach to improving public safety. The landmarks illuminated orange include:
- One World Trade Center
- Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
- Kosciuszko Bridge
- Moynihan Train Hall
- MTA Long Island Railroad – East End Gateway at Penn Station
- Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
- State Fairgrounds – Main Gate & Expo Center
- Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal
- Niagara Falls
Voices from the Frontline
Division of Criminal Justice Services Commissioner Rossana Rosado praised the collective effort: “As we recognize Gun Violence Awareness Month, I want to thank Governor Kathy Hochul and our partners in both law enforcement and the community for their tireless work to make and keep neighborhoods safe. Together, our state and local public safety partnerships are working to drive down gun violence and uplift communities. We encourage New Yorkers to participate in Wear Orange Weekend to show their support for gun violence survivors and those working to put an end to it.”
State Police Superintendent Steven G. James highlighted the ongoing battle against gun violence: “State Troopers and members of law enforcement know all too well the senseless tragedies that result from gun violence. Working together, we must address the causes, provide education and support services, and eliminate the criminal trafficking of illegal firearms into our state. I appreciate Governor Hochul’s leadership on this issue and for providing the necessary resources to reduce gun violence and build safer communities.”
Support for Victims and Communities
Office of Victim Services Director Bea Hanson called attention to the lasting impact of gun violence, especially in communities of color. “We stand with our state agency partners and fellow New Yorkers to call attention to the devastating impact of gun violence, especially in communities of color. I thank Governor Hochul for her leadership on this important issue and want to recognize the critical work done by victim assistance professionals across the state. They are unsung heroes who meet victims and survivors in the aftermath of gun violence or other crimes, working day in and day out to ensure they get the help and support needed to heal.”
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald reiterated the public health implications: “Gun violence is a public health crisis, and we thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to addressing this issue with compassion and understanding. As we observe Gun Violence Awareness Month, the State Department of Health renews our commitment to combatting this public health crisis to make communities safer and healthier for all New Yorkers – putting an end to the devastation and trauma that gun violence causes.”
Prevention and Progress
Office of Gun Violence Prevention Director Calliana Thomas focused on prevention: “Although preventable, gun violence is a leading cause of premature death in the United States. We must continue to address the root causes of gun violence. Our office is dedicated to amplifying community voices, providing new opportunities for youth, and equipping health and mental health professionals with the necessary tools and resources to implement effective prevention strategies.”
Last month, Governor Hochul announced notable progress in reducing gun violence across New York State. The 28 police departments participating in the state’s Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) initiative reported significant decreases in gun violence metrics compared to the same period last year.
Statewide Support Systems
The Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) supports various facets of the state’s criminal justice system, including law enforcement training, grant management, and youth justice policy coordination. Meanwhile, the Office of Victim Services (OVS) funds 239 victim assistance programs, offering critical services like crisis counseling and legal help, and provides financial support for crime-related expenses.
Leave a Reply