Community Justice Responds to Mass Shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 4, 2024

Contact:  maiyah@cjactionfund.org

Winder, GA – In response to this afternoon’s mass shooting at Apalachee High School, where at least four people were killed and others injured, Community Justice’s Executive Director José Alfaro released the following statement:

"Community Justice is heartbroken and outraged following this tragic mass shooting. For so many youth in our country, the beginning of the school year brings with it fear and worry about gun violence. Gun violence is the number one cause of death for children 19 and under, and Black and brown youth are disproportionately impacted. Today’s devastating act of violence once again underscores the critical need for comprehensive action to prevent gun violence, especially within the spaces where our children should feel safe.

As we learn more about the details of this horrific event, we are reminded of the urgent need to address the accessibility of unsecured firearms in the home and the deep-rooted issues in our society that perpetuate gun violence. No child should ever be in a position to take the lives of others, and no family should have to endure the loss of a loved one in such a senseless way.

Our hearts go out to the families, students, and educators affected by this tragedy. The pain and trauma inflicted on this community will leave lasting scars. As we stand with the people of Winder, we must also recommit ourselves to advocating for the policies and resources that will save lives. This includes stronger gun safety laws, mental health support for our youth, and investment in community-led and school-based programming to ensure safety for youth in our communities."

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Community Justice is a non-partisan project of Tides Center and builds power for communities of color to end gun violence.