Giffords Executive Director Calls on Congress to Act After Atlanta-Area Shootings

Washington, DC — Giffords, the gun safety organization co-founded by Former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, is actively monitoring developments in Atlanta following reports of eight people being killed by gun violence. The New York Times reported that, “all but one of the people killed were women and six of them were Asian, according to law enforcement officials.” Peter Ambler, Giffords Executive Director, pointed out the alarming frequency of gun violence and how Congress can no longer wait to take action.  

Peter Ambler, Giffords Executive Director:  

“Our thoughts are with Georgia tonight, and as we learn more about the shooting, this much is clear: gun violence is a grim fact of life for too many Americans. Tragically, the chances you might become a victim of a shooting often hinge on your race, ethnicity, or neighborhood. The tragedy in and around Atlanta is unfolding amid a disturbing increase in violence against the Asian-American community. 

“We can change this sad reality. We can stop living in a world where people are targeted because of who they are or how they live. Congress must continue to act and pass meaningful gun safety legislation into law. The policies we know can make a difference have the broad, bipartisan support of Americans across the country. They can save lives in the neighborhoods, cities, and communities that need action on safety the most. We have never been more unified as a country around the need for action.”