The National Medical Association Calls for Comprehensive Common Sense Gun Reform
Washington, DC – On Monday, three college students were killed and five more were wounded when a man opened fire at Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan. There are confirmed reports that the shooter suffered from Mental Illness. The National Medical Association’s Council on Violence Prevention, issued the following statement:
The National Medical Association is mourning the loss of three lives on Monday, and we grieve with the families of the victims. Gun Violence is a public health crisis that our country continues to respond to with condolences, thoughts and prayers, instead of passing laws to prevent violence and create safety. Condolences are performative, empty words that do nothing to prevent this from happening again.
As doctors, we are responsible for the safety of our patients – and lawmakers should feel the same, deep sense of responsibility for ensuring the safety of their constituents. People cannot just be – we cannot go to the grocery store, to church, for a jog, or a drive, or even being in school seeking an education without the threat of violence hanging over our heads. Policymakers are not taking seriously gun violence and the urgent, desperate need for common–sense gun reform in this country.
The National Medical Association calls for immediate legislation to stop the flow of guns used in crimes by closing gun show loopholes and establishing mandatory background checks for all gun owners. We are calling for investment in community–based programs that prevent and reduce violence, lower recidivism, and increase funding for community policing. There is great need to increase federal funding in gun violence research now.
The National Medical Association NMA promotes the collective interests of physicians and patients of African descent. We carry out this mission by serving as the collective voice of physicians of African descent and a leading force for parity in medicine, elimination of health disparities and promotion of optimal health.
Media Contact:
Michael L. Peery MLP@lengarmedia.com (312) 217-2260
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