Framework underscores the coordinated, strategic approach to gun violence prevention and intervention that is essential to public safety and a thriving community.

Richmond, VA — Mayor Levar M. Stoney today announced the publication of the Administration’s report to address Gun Violence Prevention and Intervention in the City of Richmond.

The mayor marked the historic announcement by hosting a roundtable to thank key stakeholders from around the city who had been involved in crafting the report as part of the city’s Gun Violence Prevention and Intervention Working Group. He expressed his deep gratitude to leaders from city and state agencies and nonprofits noting that their cooperation and collaboration underscores the coordinated, strategic approach to gun violence prevention and intervention that is essential to public safety and a thriving community.

“I know our residents, and many of you all, have contributed blood, sweat and many tears, literally, working for a better, safer day in our city,” the mayor told the panel, which included representatives from VCU Health, the Richmond City Health District, Richmond Public Schools, community partners, and many others.

“I know this has been a labor of love for all of you – and that’s easy to understand. Because we love our city.  We love the peace of mind -- and body -- that comes from feeling safe in our neighborhoods and in our homes.  And because we love our children, we will find a positive path forward and make our city safer.”

The past few years have been intentional and strategic – engaging the communities most impacted by gun violence and the experts who have been leading efforts to reduce violence – not just a cookie cutter program to plug into any city, but one that is specific to the needs and circumstances within the City of Richmond. 

“We know that we need both police enforcement and intervention and community prevention programs that are evidence-based to wrap their arms around our youth and their families,” the mayor said.

“I know thousands of people are working to prevent gun violence every day – from teachers, police officers, doctors, coaches, social workers, faith based leaders, parents, and guardians. These are our unsung heroes.”

In his remarks the mayor also called for stronger gun regulations and for residents to lock up guns in their homes and cars. He said the city must also address the root causes of crime that contribute to violence in the community. He acknowledged that the issue of rising gun violence, which has impacted cities across the nation over the last two years will not be solved overnight.

“It will take time, sustained resources, and dedicated partners to curb violence,” the mayor said, noting that this week is National Youth Violence Prevention Week. “But I want you to know that your city is committed to this effort. We will not stop – and we ask that you join us.”

Councilmembers also voiced their strong support and commitment to the Mayor’s approach to address gun violence:

“Having a coordinated, strategic gun violence prevention and intervention framework is critical to addressing gun violence in our city,” said Council President Cynthia Newbille, who participated in the GVPI working group. “We especially need to lift-up our youth and their families and ensure they have every opportunity and tool to succeed. This holistic approach takes great strides in doing so, and I know we will not stop there. Thank you to all that helped craft this framework – it is clear a lot of thought and strategic intentionality went into getting us to this moment.”

“Guns have become the weapon of choice and they are being used recklessly and have taken the lives of babies, young children and youth - caught in the line of fire,” said Council Vice President Ellen Robertson. “The perpetrators are younger and have easy access to guns. The reality is hatred causes anger and anger will make one kill. The City’s gun violence remedy starts by addressing hatred and easy access to the weapon used to kill -- the gun!”

“We will never address gun violence overnight, but I am proud of the Richmond-specific framework the GVPI Working Group created,” said Councilwoman Ann-Frances Lambert, who also served on the working group. “It emphasizes the need for youth programs and a community-based approach to prevent violence – all of which the Administration is providing funds to accomplish. By following this framework and working together we can make a difference and address this public health crisis.”

“As a resident of the Southside, I feel the impact of gun violence daily and I am encouraged that the Mayor and City Council are committed to addressing gun violence prevention through such a comprehensive framework,” said Councilman Michael J. Jones.

“Gun violence prevention is a multifaceted issue that requires an exhaustive approach and I am inspired by this holistic agenda. I am not naive or think that gun violence in the city will be resolved overnight but I am optimistic at this step toward a resolution.”

For more information on the city’s Gun Violence Prevention and Intervention framework, please visit http://www.rva.gov/Rvagvpi .

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