Gun violence is a problem in more than half of pediatricians’ communities, according to an AAP Periodic Survey. To address its impact on children, the Academy launched an initiative last year targeting gun violence and intolerance. Pediatricians also can support firearms prevention during two AAP-backed campaigns.
One bold way to stand up against gun violence is to Wear Orange on June 2, National Gun Violence Awareness Day. The campaign is a visual reminder of the 90 deaths each day from gun violence. Chicago teens started wearing orange to remember 15-year-old Hadiya Pendleton, who was gunned down in a park in 2013. The students turned from grieving to advocacy by speaking out against gun violence in their community each year.
The campaign focuses on honoring the lives and lost human potential of Americans killed by gun violence; doing all we can to keep firearms out of the wrong hands; and being responsible gun owners and keeping children safe.
The Academy offers tips on how pediatricians can advocate for safety in their communities at http://bit.ly/2oYrvdO. Pediatricians also are encouraged to take the pledge of support at http://www.wearorange.org. On social media, use #WearOrange to spread messages about gun violence prevention and retweet messages from @AAPNews, @AmerAcadPeds and @HealthyChildren.
The Asking Saves Kids (ASK) campaign prompts pediatricians to remind families why they should ask if there are guns in homes where their children play. If so, guns should be unloaded and safely secured away from curious children. On ASK Day, June 21, pediatricians can participate via social media by using #AskingSavesKids. The campaign is a collaboration between the Academy and the Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence.
Continue to keep current on gun violence prevention efforts during the AAP National Conference & Exhibition. On Sept. 17, plenary speaker J. Gary Wheeler, M.D., M.P.S., FAAP, will explain how members can join efforts to protect children from gun violence. Visit http://www.aapexperience.org for details.
