An email with a subject line referencing an assassination in Minnesota caught attention this week. It was about the tragic killing of a Minnesota state representative, Melissa Hortman, and her husband. The email was a fundraising appeal from Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman from Arizona who knows the pain of targeted violence firsthand.
Giffords was shot in the head during a constituent meeting in Tucson on January 8, 2011. Since then, she has dedicated her life to advocating for gun safety. She co-founded GIFFORDS, an organization focused on reducing gun violence. Giffords spoke about her friendship with Hortman, recalling how they worked together on gun safety legislation in Minnesota. Hortman was instrumental in passing a red flag law and expanding background checks in the state.
This month marks the three-year anniversary of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which aimed to improve background checks for young gun buyers and increase funding for mental health services. When asked about the future of gun legislation, Giffords expressed cautious optimism, acknowledging the long road ahead.
Emma Brown, the executive director of GIFFORDS, shared that this week also marked the 10-year anniversary of the Charleston shooting. Giffords attended a memorial service at Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, where she spoke about the importance of hope and faith in the face of ongoing gun violence.
The recent shooting in Minnesota has left many questioning how such tragedies continue to occur. The suspect, charged in the killings, had multiple firearms, including AK-47s, in his vehicle. Authorities are still investigating the motive behind the attack. Brown highlighted the need for better gun laws and background checks, especially for individuals who pose a danger.
Despite the grim realities, Giffords and Brown emphasized the progress made in the past 12 years. Since the founding of GIFFORDS, over 700 laws have been passed at the state level to promote gun safety. They noted that states with stricter gun laws see fewer deaths from gun violence.
Reflecting on her journey since the shooting, Giffords shared her gratitude for friends and family and the importance of living each day fully. Her message resonates with many, as she continues to advocate for change and inspire hope in the fight against gun violence.