By Okon Ekpenyong

Ohio House Democrats have announced that they would be hosting the inaugural Gun Violence Prevention Summit on February 15, 2024, at the Ohio Statehouse, with the aim to promote discussions on common sense policies that have the support of the bipartisan majority of Ohioans.

The House Democrats have introduced several legislations regarding this issue. However, the Republican party, which controls both the House of Delegates and the State Senate, believes that the solution to reducing gun violence is to keep violent offenders locked up. They argue that trying to take away guns from law-abiding citizens is a violation of their Second Amendment rights. Despite these objections, the House Democrat caucus, in partnership with Moms Demand Action, remains committed to fighting for measures that can protect and prevent gun violence.

In recent years, however, conversations surrounding gun control and gun violence have become an epidemic in the United States, claiming the lives of too many innocent individuals, including high school students. It is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach to find peace.

It has had a significant impact on the new American community. As immigrants and refugees learn to adapt to their new homes, they often face the fear and reality of gun violence. The gun violence prevention summit will allow these individuals to learn about the state-level efforts to address this issue and potentially get involved in advocating for safer communities. This summit can also serve as a platform for these communities to voice their concerns and experiences related to gun violence solutions.

That is why community leaders and violence prevention groups are teaming up with Ohio’s House Representatives in Ohio and are taking a proactive step toward addressing this crisis by organizing the inaugural Gun Violence Prevention Summit.

The summit aims to bring together elected officials, law enforcement officers, and public safety and health stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions about common-sense policies that potentially save lives. With a bipartisan majority of Ohioans supporting these policies, the summit hopes to bridge the gap between opposing sides and find solutions that can be implemented promptly.

The stance on gun control continues to be a significant point of contention between the two political parties, with Democrats advocating for stricter regulations and Republicans pushing for the protection of the Second Amendment. Democrats continue to argue that limiting access to guns can help prevent mass shootings and other forms of gun violence. Republicans, on the other hand, believe that responsible gun ownership and prosecution of violent crimes are the keys to keeping citizens safe. This disagreement highlights the ongoing debate and divide in the United States over gun control.

Despite the ongoing debate, the summit will have three panels, each focusing on a different aspect of gun violence prevention. The first panel will feature elected officials from the House Democratic Caucus discussing proposed legislation and policies to reduce gun violence. The second panel will include the Brady Campaign and Moms Demand Action representatives. They will share their expertise and offer insights on proven effective strategies in other states.

The third and final panel will bring together law enforcement officers and representatives from the Fraternal Order of Police of Ohio and the Ohio Domestic Violence Network. These panelists will provide real-world perspectives and share their daily experiences dealing with gun violence. Through their stories, we hope to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of gun violence on our communities and the urgent need for action.

The summit is not just about discussing policies and solutions; it is also a call to action for all stakeholders to work together towards a common goal – to reduce gun violence in Ohio. Local, state, and national officials and representatives from various organizations and community members are expected to participate in the summit. By bringing everyone together, we hope to foster a sense of unity and collaboration in the fight against gun violence.

“Gun violence is an epidemic in our state, and it is past time to do something,” said Rep. Jessica E. Miranda (D-Forest Park), co-chair of the Ohio House Gun Violence Prevention Caucus.

“I am excited to be hosting the Gun Violence Prevention Summit at the Statehouse this year. We have worked hard to create an event discussing major issues and possible solutions. We are harnessing the local law enforcement community and many statewide and national organizations, like the Brady Campaign, to speak on problems and proposals we could implement across the state. I hope to see people from every corner of our state on February 15 so we can all learn from each other and unite to fight for common sense gun safety and a safer Ohio.”

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