Michigan Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence
The Michigan Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence (MCPGV) works to prevent gun violence through community education and support for stronger gun laws. It is affiliated with States United to Prevent Gun Violence. All are welcome to attend meetings, held at our church and other locations in the greater Lansing area. MCPGV has been part of the UU Lansing Social Justice committee since its inception. UU Lansing contributes to MCPGV by publicizing events, allowing for meeting space, office support and printing. This relationship is hugely appreciated and UU Lansing has made significant contributions to GVP in MI. We are part of a statewide network of partners including community agencies, public officials, faith-based organizations, medical professionals, and gun violence prevention advocates.
MCPGV has Five Legislative Goals:
- Universal background checks for all firearm purchases
- Child access prevention legislation
- Extreme risk protection orders
- A ban on open and concealed carry weapons in schools
- A ban on military style weapons/ammunition
As part of our community education, we have gone to various community groups to present materials and help people know how they can make a difference on this issue. Highlights of this year are presentations to:
- State Board of Education
- For 5 weeks, hosted Sandy Anglin Phillips whose daughter was killed at Aurora. Made 5 different presentations throughout the state and held a fundraiser for Survivors empowered.
- Regularly attend Advocates And Leaders For Police And Community Trust and have made presentations to them. UU Lansing has participated in hosting ALPACT’s monthly meeting.
- Presentation to Action of Lansing.
Numerous other presentations in Antrim Co., Grand Traverse Co., Lake Orion, Farmington, Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids as we attempt to increase our membership.
MCPGV participated in a panel discussion sponsored by the Lansing chapter of the League of Women Voters, “Keep Children Safe from Gun Violence.” Information was presented on advocacy, Extreme Risk Protection Order and Child Access Prevention.
ASK (Asking Saves Kids): The free, hour-long interactive presentation is designed to help parents and other caretakers ask the difficult question: “Are there unlocked guns in your house?” The ASK program is a Brady Campaign.
Grants: Uplift Our Youth Foundation, Covenant 5, Episcopal Diocese of Michigan
Vigils, Remembrances: Las Vegas, Sandy Hook Five Year Remembrance
MCPGV along with Peace Quest of Greater Lansing produced our second Concert Across America to End Gun Violence on September 24. This event was held at UU Lansing and there were over 250 people in attendance.
Go to https://michigancoalitiontopreventgunviolence.org/ for more information.