Recent tragedies, including a school shooting in Wisconsin and a fatal shooting in Connecticut, have once again brought the issue of gun violence to the forefront. Dr. Kerri Raissian, director of the University of Connecticut’s A.R.M.S. initiative, is leading the charge in researching and addressing this crisis. She stresses the importance of a research-driven, public health approach to tackling gun violence, highlighting the need for multifaceted solutions.
Connecticut’s Commission on Community Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention has reported alarming racial disparities in gun violence victims, with Black males disproportionately affected. Raissian advocates for targeted community resources and nonprofit organizations to support those impacted by gun violence.
She also praises Connecticut’s strong gun laws, which have been effective in reducing youth gun violence and suicides. However, Raissian points out the need for improved clearance of unsolved murders in Hartford, advocating for the use of technology and forensic tools to solve gun-related crimes and prevent further violence.
Overall, Raissian’s work underscores the urgency of addressing gun violence through a comprehensive and collaborative approach involving research, prevention, and community engagement.
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