Long Beach officials, first responders, and community members gather at Civic Center Plaza to observe National Gun Violence Awareness Day, emphasizing the urgent need to combat gun violence, particularly affecting children and teens. Gun violence has become the leading cause of death in this demographic, surpassing traffic accidents, with over 110 shootings reported in the first four months of 2025 alone.
During the event, attendees donned orange, the color symbolizing gun violence prevention, and participated in resource fairs, hands-on CPR demonstrations, and discussions about the public health crisis posed by gun violence. City leaders, including Mayor Rex Richardson, highlight the success of initiatives like the STRONG Beach program, which has resulted in a significant 27.3% reduction in homicides. The aim is to empower the community with resources and educational opportunities to prevent future tragedies.
Read full story at www.presstelegram.com
