Amnesty International USA Statement on White House's Support of Community Violence Prevention Programs

Today, President Biden announced the American Jobs Plan, calling on Congress to pass a $12 billion investment in workers facing significant challenges. Part of this $12 billion investment includes $5 billion over eight years in support of evidence-based community violence prevention programs. In a statement, Ernest Coverson, the End Gun Violence Campaign Manager at Amnesty International USA, said:

"We applaud President Biden's historic decision to take a critical step toward ending gun violence, which affects numerous communities across the country. Supporting funding of community-based programs, represents a victory for Amnesty International USA and the many partner and front-line organizations that have been pushing for this type of action. This year the "Invest in Us" coalition came together with a goal to secure federal funding to address gun violence, and in less than a month, the Biden Administration listened.

"After years of inaction from the federal government on gun violence, President Biden's plan to invest in our communities demonstrates hope that those most affected by this violence will receive help. Gun violence disproportionately impacts Black and brown communities, and firearm-related homicides are one of the leading causes of death among young Black and Latinx men. This funding is a first step toward ending these needless deaths.

"The fight doesn't stop here; now Congress must act. Black and brown communities have the right to live without the fear of pervasive gun violence--that is why Congress must ensure this legislation is passed and communities secure this funding."

This statement is available online at: https://www.amnestyusa.org/press-releases/statement-on-white-houses-support-of-community-violence-prevention-programs