Title
Honoring Community Partners and Recognizing National Gun Violence Awareness Month.
Body
WHEREAS, National Gun Violence Awareness Month is observed every June to raise awareness about the devastating impact of gun violence on communities and to honor the lives lost to such violence; and
WHEREAS, as of June 2025, St. Paul has experienced a significant decline in gun-related violence and homicides, including a reduction from six firearm-related homicides in June 2024 to only one such incident this year; and
WHEREAS, this dramatic decline is a testament to the collaborative efforts of law enforcement, community organizations, and the city’s commitment to a holistic and community-centered public safety approach; and
WHEREAS, These Community Based Organizations have been a vital partner in this effort, engaging directly with community to provide mentorship, conflict resolution training, and positive opportunities, fostering a culture of nonviolence and personal growth; and
WHEREAS, through their gun violence initiatives, community peace-building activities, and partnerships with the St. Paul Office of Neighborhood Safety, these community-based organizations have helped to address the root causes of violence and create safer neighborhoods; and
WHEREAS, the St. Paul Police Department’s Non-Fatal Shooting Unit, ASPIRE Unit and other public safety measures have also played a pivotal role in enhancing investigative capabilities and holding perpetrators accountable, contributing to the reduction in violent crime;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Saint Paul City Council hereby honors Honoring Boots on the Ground Community Patrol, Charles Adams, Elpis, Hired, Moms Demand Action, World Youth Connect for their invaluable contributions to reducing gun violence and fostering community safety; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council recognizes and supports the ongoing efforts of all partners, including, the Office of Neighborhood Safety, the Non-Fatal Shooting Unit, ASPIRE unit and, Boots on the Ground Community Patrol, Charles Adams, Elpis, Hired, Moms Demand Action, World Youth Connect to sustain and expand the positive impact of these initiatives; and
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Saint Paul City Council proclaims June 2025 as National Gun Violence Awareness Month in St. Paul, reaffirming its commitment to a Community First Public Safety approach and celebrating the progress made toward a safer, more peaceful city.