Each June, communities across the country observe Gun Violence Awareness Month — a time to pause, reflect, and recommit ourselves to the safety and well-being of our neighbors. As your mayor, I want to take a moment to acknowledge this important observance and the meaningful work being done right here in our region.
Gun violence affects communities of every size, background, and geography. Whether it touches families through accidents, tragedy, or the quiet fear it can create in daily life, the human cost is real and deeply felt by all of us. In Tualatin, we take the safety of our residents seriously — and that means staying engaged with the conversations happening in our state and across the nation.
One organization active here in Oregon is Moms Demand Action, a volunteer-led group of everyday community members — parents, grandparents, educators, and neighbors — who advocate for public safety measures around firearms. They host community events, provide support to survivors, and work tirelessly to raise awareness about gun violence prevention. Chapters are active throughout Oregon, including right here in the Portland metro area. Regardless of where any of us stand on policy matters, their commitment to community engagement and their genuine concern for family safety reflects values we all share as Tualatin residents.
This month, I encourage all Tualatin residents to have thoughtful, open conversations with the people you trust — family, friends, and neighbors — about firearm safety in the home. Simple, responsible steps like secure storage can make a profound difference and save lives, particularly among children and teenagers who may be curious or in crisis.
Safe storage resources and information are available through the Tualatin Police Department, local law enforcement agencies, and the Oregon Health Authority. I encourage you to reach out and take advantage of these free community resources.
I am proud to serve a community where people across many perspectives can come together around a shared goal: keeping Tualatin a safe, welcoming, and thriving place to live, work, and raise a family.
