The Center’s Statement on Recent Gun Violence in California

The gun violence epidemic continues to devastate U.S. communities. Thirty-nine shootings have occurred so far in 2023, the most at this point than any year on record, according to CNN and the Gun Violence Archive. We are heartbroken for the lives lost in California at Half Moon Bay, this week, and at last week’s mass shooting in Monterey Park around the Lunar New Year Festival. What should have been a celebratory weekend is now a tragedy during one of the most important holidays for the Asian and Pacific Islander community. 

As a civil and human rights educational institution, The Center remains committed to confronting hatred in all its forms and to promoting and protecting the dignity of all people, everywhere. Violence impacting any community is a scourge in our society. Widespread gun violence is a human rights issue— that must be dealt with through sustained action. 

If you wish to support those recently affected by gun violence in their communities, you can access resources at Asian Americans Advancing Justice, Every Town Support Fund, and the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions.