Community Justice Applauds the Introduction of Break the Cycle of Violence Act
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Landmark legislation would invest $6.5 billion in violence intervention and youth workforce programs
[JUNE 25, 2025] – Community Justice, a national nonprofit working to end gun violence in Black and Brown communities, proudly supports the newly introduced Break the Cycle of Violence Act, a groundbreaking bill aimed at reducing gun violence by investing in community-based violence intervention and prevention strategies.
Sponsored by Representative Steven Horsford (D-NV) and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), the Break the Cycle of Violence Act would establish federal grant programs to invest $5 billion in community-based violence intervention initiatives that have been shown to be effective in reducing gun violence and $1.5 billion in youth workforce training programs for at-risk youth. The bill also emphasizes culturally competent and trauma-responsive services, recognizing the unique needs of communities experiencing violence.
“Over the last several years, cities across the country finally saw decreases in homicides and shootings, and that is only because of significant federal investment in community violence intervention (CVI) strategies. However, Black and Brown communities continue to bear the brunt of gun violence. Without a doubt, more funding is needed to support CVI programs especially after the cancellation of many federal CVI grant awards earlier this year,” said Adzi Vokhiwa, Vice President of Policy, Community Justice.
“If signed into law, the Break the Cycle of Violence Act would provide the largest federal investment in community-based and community-led efforts to end gun violence, expand workforce training for youth at the highest risk of violence, and help ensure the implementation of a public health approach to gun violence prevention. We thank Congressman Horsford and Senator Booker for recognizing the effectiveness and importance of CVI strategies and introducing this important legislation to save lives across the country."
Community Justice calls on Congress to pass the Break the Cycle of Violence Act and send a clear message: community safety starts with community investment.
Press Contact: [Eboni Munn, Communications Director, eboni@cjactionfund.org]
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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.