News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

News from Campaign For A Safer Michigan 

September 7, 2023 

Contact: Lynna Kaucheck, lynna@progressmichigan.org 

Increasing Resources, Decreasing Violence: Michigan Organizations Unite for Gun Violence Prevention Through Root Cause Solutions 

MICHIGAN – Far too many acts of gun violence are fueled by access and proximity to firearms while being exacerbated by persistent wealth and resource gaps. The campaign to address this problem, aptly titled “Campaign for a Safer Michigan,” seeks to underscore the urgent need for comprehensive solutions that bridge divides and pave the way for safer, well resourced, and more equitable communities. 

“Communities that are under-resourced experience higher instances of violence,” said Sam Inglot, executive director of Progress Michigan. “If we are truly going to solve Michigan’s gun violence problem we must address why people resort to violence in the first place. The Campaign for a Safer Michigan’s Root Cause Platform is the first of its kind and seeks to address the root causes of violence ensuring that, regardless of your background or ZIP code, all Michiganders have the resources they need to lead healthy, safe lives.” 

Michigan’s ranks above the national average in various statistical categories of gun violence, indicating an urgent need for comprehensive action. While the Michigan Legislature took swift measures following the tragic shooting at Michigan State University, it is widely recognized that such efforts are just the beginning, and that holistic approach to gun violence prevention is necessary. The campaign’s focus is on delving into the underlying factors that contribute to violence and creating a more secure and prosperous environment for all Michiganders. 

“Adequately investing in evidence-based, community violence intervention programs will infuse communities with the resources they need to address violence,” said Alia Harvey-Quinn, executive director for FORCE Detroit. “Violence interventionists require resources, training, and support to be able to effectively do their job to identify individuals that are at a high risk of committing violence, building relationships with those individuals, and connecting them with the resources they need. This doesn’t happen overnight and requires an adequate and sustainable funding mechanism.” 

The campaign has garnered support from a diverse range of organizations representing various sectors, including social services, healthcare, education, veteran support, community groups, and more. These organizations are urging Michigan lawmakers to prioritize the implementation of root cause solutions that encompass a comprehensive approach to community well-being and safety.

Among the key initiatives endorsed by the campaign are: 

• Ensuring access to affordable housing for all Michiganders 
• Establishing statewide, income-based utility affordability programs encompassing water, electric, gas, and internet services 
• Enforcing a permanent moratorium on utility shut-offs for individuals at 200 percent of the poverty level 
• Championing investments in small businesses and holding corporations accountable for fulfilling tax break agreements 
• Developing and funding equitable public transportation systems to enhance accessibility. ● Eliminating prison gerrymandering to strengthen the political power and economic resources of impacted communities 
• Advocating for universal healthcare, including comprehensive mental health services, and reducing healthcare disparities 
• Providing adequate and sustainable mental health services for Michigan veterans. ● Investing in an inclusive education system that promotes effective learning and opportunities for all 
• Restoring collective bargaining rights for public sector employees, including educators (ACCOMPLISHED!) 
• Promoting gender inclusivity by reflecting all gender identities on government documents 
• Allocating equitable funding for community violence intervention programs outside of law enforcement 
• Ensuring culturally relevant victim services, particularly for victims of domestic and sexual violence 

“Gov. Whitmer and the Michigan Legislature made great strides this year towards ensuring that our communities have the resources they need, and educators and schools were on the receiving end,” said Gary Welnitz, field representative for AFT Michigan. “By restoring collective bargaining rights for public sector employees, like educators, and passing the largest education budget in Michigan history, we are well on the way to making sure that educators, students, and families have the resources they need to thrive. When our communities are well-resourced, we experience less violence, and that’s a win-win!” 

“By collectively pursuing root cause solutions, Michiganders will witness significant progress in combating preventable gun violence, injuries, and fatalities,” said Ken Whittaker, executive director for Michigan United and the Michigan Peoples Campaign. “Through a shared commitment to addressing root causes we can forge a path towards safer, more vibrant communities that prioritize the well-being and safety of all residents.” 

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