Championing Safety: Uniting Against Gun Violence in Houston
By Martin Troupe, Sr.
In Houston, amidst a disturbing uptick in gun violence causing deaths and injuries nationwide, a coalition of advocates and professionals from healthcare and law enforcement recently convened at the Houston Ethnic Media Briefing Focuses on Gun Violence. The aim was to discuss strategies to foster a culture of safety in the community.
Recognizing that waiting for legislative action to restrict gun access could take years, the group emphasized the pressing need for immediate action in the face of real and present dangers.
Dr. Bindi Naik-Mathuria, Chief of Pediatric Surgery at the University of Texas Medical Branch, shared a poignant story of treating a 3-year-old victim of stray gunfire, highlighting the urgency of addressing gun violence, which she declared as the leading cause of death among children and youth. Dr. Naik-Mathuria urged media engagement to push for the establishment of a Commission Against Violence, suggesting the leadership of Houston’s new mayor, John Whitmire, could greatly enhance its impact.
Despite overwhelming public support for common-sense gun safety measures in Houston, existing Texas laws restrict municipalities from enacting firearm regulations. State-level legislation has even loosened restrictions, exacerbating the problem.
Officer Raul Collins of the Houston Police Department, alongside Saami Baig and gun safety advocate Jahir Rahman, emphasized the grim statistics of gun violence nationwide, highlighting its devastating effects on communities. Emilee Whitehurst from the Houston Area Women’s Center underscored the dangerous link between domestic violence and gun ownership, debunking the myth that firearms make households safer.
Saami Baig shared harrowing testimonies of children terrorized by the constant threat of gun violence, stressing the urgent need for activism to prevent further tragedies. Officer Collins, drawing from personal experience, emphasized the importance of gun safety education and distributed gun locks to ensure safer firearm storage.
Terry Bryan, crisis manager at the College of Biblical Studies, emphasized the importance of community safety plans and individual responsibility in fostering a culture of safety, echoing the sentiment that change begins at home and in local communities, irrespective of legislative progress.
In the face of legislative gridlock, these advocates and professionals stand united in their commitment to addressing gun violence and promoting safety in Houston and beyond.
