Note from Bon Secours Volunteer Ministry: We unite our cries with the Sisters of Bon Secours in mourning the devastating tragedy in Parkland, Florida. As expressed in this video showing the perspective of Baltimore youth, in the wake of this horrific event, we also call attention to ongoing gun violence in our cities. The Sisters of Bon Secours have long had a commitment in Baltimore, and elsewhere to “cry out against injustice” and live in “radical solidarity with the poor,the suffering, and those most in need.” Along with the Sisters of Bon Secours, Bon Secours Volunteer Ministry recognizes the urgent need for gun reform legislation that keeps all people safe, especially those who live amidst persistent gun violence.
SISTERS OF BON SECOURS USA
Sisters of Bon Secours Statement on Gun Violence
As women of healing the Sisters of Bon Secours grieve the loss of life, the pain of trauma, and the agonizing violence inflicted on the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School community in Parkland, Florida by a very disturbed young man who had access to an assault rifle.
While we hold the 17 victims of this horrific tragedy in our thoughts and prayers we also hold ourselves accountable to do what we can to advocate for an end to gun violence.
Through our participation in Faiths United Against Gun Violence and other organizations advocating for gun safety, we call on our elected officials to immediately take up legislation that:
- requires universal background checks and mandatory waiting periods for all gun purchases;
- bans civilian ownership of high-capacity weapons and magazines; and
- makes gun trafficking a federal crime.
Through our membership in the Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility we challenge gun manufacturers to:
- issue a report on the companies’ activities related to gun safety measures and the mitigation of harm associated with their gun products
- monitor violent events associated with products produced by their companies
- research and produce safer guns and gun products.
We stand in solidarity with the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR) who reminds us that in the wake of this national tragedy “mourning is not enough, action is needed”. We support the inspiring young people of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School who are speaking truth to power in such eloquent and heartfelt ways in support of gun safety. And we hold fast to the hope that our collective voice for an end to violence in all forms will bring forth a culture of peace on this planet God so loves.
To view the full LCWR Statement on gun violence please go to:
https://lcwr.org/media/news/mourning-not-enough-lcwr-calls-action-prevent-gun-violence