Congressman Neguse and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries Joined by Local Leaders for Community Conversation on Gun Violence Prevention
Lafayette, CO — Congressman Joe Neguse welcomed House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries to Colorado for a community conversation on gun violence prevention. The event, which took place at the University of Colorado Boulder, featured a panel of local leaders and advocates. Last year, House Democrats passed and President Biden enacted the historic Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, the first major gun violence prevention legislation in nearly 30 years. The lawmakers discussed this bill and congressional Democrats’ commitment to passing comprehensive gun safety legislation.
Following the 2021 King Soopers mass shooting in Boulder, Colorado, Congressman Neguse has advocated tirelessly for the safety of his community, championing a legislative package focused on gun violence prevention and workplace safety.
“It was an honor to welcome House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries to Colorado. Tragically, our state is no stranger to the scourge of gun violence. Day after day, and year after year, too many Americans and Coloradans are dying from gun violence,” said Congressman Neguse. “There was a time, in this country, when policymakers would come together – from both sides of the aisle – to try and do something for the common good and protect our communities, as we did through the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act. It is time for us to do so again, and enact common sense legislation that we know will save lives. I am grateful to all of our panelists for their insight and commitment to the cause. Our work is just getting started.”
“We have to find a path forward to confront the gun violence epidemic that has hit communities all across the country hard, with the fierce urgency of now. It’s a national problem and we need a national solution,” said Leader Jeffries. “There's absolutely no reason why Congress can't find the will to get this over the finish line. We will not give in until we accomplish these objectives and can make America a safe place for everyone free of the scourge of gun violence.”
The event was moderated by Dr. Reiland Rabaka, Founder and Director of CU’s Center for African and African American Studies (CAAAS), and panelists included: Dr. Colleen Simpson, President of Front Range Community College, Dr. Beverly Kingston, Center for the Study and Prevention of Violence at University of Colorado, Michael Dougherty, District Attorney, 20th Judicial District, Portia Prescott, President, NAACP CO-MT-WY, and gun violence prevention advocates.
“It’s heartbreaking that these incidents continue to occur with such frequency. I know this causes very real anxiety for the students, staff, faculty and instructors on our campuses—especially for those who belong to groups that have been the targets of mass shootings. Front Range Community College is committed to creating a safe environment where everyone feels welcome and knows that they belong here,” said Dr. Colleen Simpson, President of Front Range Community College.
“Our nation continues to suffer from mass shootings and tragic incidents every day, including amongst our young people. Gun violence is a top priority for our District Attorney’s Office, but no community is immune from gun violence. So, the challenges and terrible consequences of gun violence require a response at the local, state, and federal level. Representative Joe Neguse has been a champion and ally in the effort to prevent gun violence. Today is another step in the collaborative efforts needed for Colorado and for our country. I greatly appreciate the strong commitment from Representative Neguse and Representative Jeffries, as demonstrated by this gathering in Boulder,” said Michael Dougherty, District Attorney, 20th Judicial District.
“When the lack of violence prevention infrastructure is combined with easy accessibility of firearms, it’s a lethal combination that fuels gun violence in America,” said Dr. Beverly Kingston, Center for the Study and Prevention of Violence at University of Colorado.
During their visit, Congressman Neguse and Leader Jeffries made several stops across the University of Colorado Boulder campus. Before the afternoon’s community conversation, the lawmakers met with CU President Todd Saliman, CU Boulder Chancellor Phil DiStefano, CU Football Coach Deion ‘Coach Prime’ Sanders, as well as members of the school’s faculty and staff. Following the community conversation, the lawmakers also toured CU’s new Center for African and African American Studies (CAAAS). The CAAAS, which opened in February of this year, is a one-of-a-kind hub working to expand the focus and field of study centered on understanding the experiences of people of African descent around the world through scholarship, research and engaging classroom experiences for students.
Find additional photos from their visit here.
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