Public Education and Engagement

Gun Violence Prevention Strategy: Public Education and Engagement to Achieve Stronger Gun Laws

Goal: Gun laws in the U.S. allow for easy access to an unlimited number of almost any type of firearm, by virtually anyone. A growing body of research shows that strong gun laws correspond with lower rates of gun crime and violence. The Joyce Foundation supports efforts at the local, state and national levels to build awareness about the problem of gun violence in America, and to educate the public, policy makers and the media about common-sense policies that improve public health and safety.

Theory of Change: Building public awareness can spur engagement by gun violence prevention supporters, and can help ensure that public policy is better aligned with public opinion.

The Joyce Approach

• Support outreach to law enforcement and community organizations, and to those most impacted by gun violence.
• Encourage state-based efforts in the Great Lakes region to educate the public about effective gun violence prevention policies.
• Support training for journalists and nonprofit journalism on gun violence and gun policy issues.

Latest News From The Gun Violence Prevention Program