The Douglas County chapter of Moms Demand Action will observe the 8th National Gun Violence Awareness Day by wearing orange and collecting donations for survivors of domestic violence.
In an email, leaders of the chapter encouraged its members to help bring awareness to gun violence and its impact on individuals and communities.
“We know your hearts are heavy with the recent tragic mass shootings in Buffalo, Uvalde, and many others. Tragedies involving guns have also happened recently right here in Lawrence. Rage, grief and sadness are all appropriate responses (to) what has happened – also knowing that this incredible loss of life doesn’t have to continue.”
The #WearOrange movement started in memory of Hadiya Pendleton, who was killed in a 2013 shooting. Advocates for gun violence awareness honor Pendleton and those affected by gun violence by wearing bright orange — just like hunters who wear orange clothing to protect themselves and others.
Activities to commemorate the 2022 Wear Orange Weekend will take place from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 4 on the west side of South Park, 1141 Massachusetts St.
A Tribute Wall will be in place for those who wish to commemorate an event or a victim of gun violence with a photo or note. Orange ribbons will be tied throughout the park and toiletries will be collected for the Willow Domestic Violence Center. Those who attend are encouraged to wear orange.
The Watkins Museum of History and Bowersock Mills & Power Company will be lit orange for awareness as well, according to the email.
Get more information and email updates from the local organization by signing up at this link.
Moms Demand Action was founded by Shannon Watts and is part of Everytown for Gun Safety, the largest gun violence prevention organization in the U.S.
Get help in Lawrence
Domestic violence situations: The Willow Domestic Violence Center
- Reach the Willow for help 24/7 at 785-843-3333.
- Find more resources on the Willow’s website at this link.
- National hotline: Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), text “START” to 88788, and/or visit thehotline.org to chat and learn more, 24/7.
File for an order of protection
In Kansas, victim-survivors of stalking and abuse can file for court orders of protection from abuse or stalking online. Visit kspop.org and follow the instructions on the website. The service is available for any county in Kansas. You can also file for a protection order with traditional paper forms; check this link for more information.
Learn the warning signs
Read about warning signs of domestic violence and emotional abuse and learn how you can help at this link.
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Tricia Masenthin (she/her), equity reporter, can be reached at tmasenthin (at) lawrencekstimes (dot) com. Read more of her work for the Times here. Check out her staff bio here.
