2016-06-30

Yesterday, House Democrats joined with families and gun violence prevention advocates across the country for a National Day of Action on Commonsense Gun Violence Prevention.  In the wake of House Democrats’ historic sit-in on the Floor of the House, Americans from every walk of life came together to share their stories and send a message to the GOP Congress:  House Republicans must end their reckless obstruction and join with Democrats to take action to disarm hate.

New York Times: Democrats Hold Events to Push Congress to Act on Gun Safety Measures

USA TODAY: House Democrats take push for gun legislation back to their districts

Newsweek: Democrats Rally Communities Around Ending Gun Violence

MSNBC: National Day of Action for gun reform

Baltimore Sun: House Democrats take push for gun control to home districts

VICE News: Democrats push again for gun control laws with Day of Action

Roll Call: Democrats Plan Dozens of Events Wednesday to Protest Gun Violence

Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi, Congressman Mike Thompson (D-CA), Chair of the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-CA), Congressman Mike Honda (D-CA), Congressman Eric Swalwell (D-CA), Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA), and Congressman Jerry McNerney (D-CA) Hold Sit-In to Disarm Hate on National Day of Action on Gun Violence Prevention:

San Francisco Chronicle: Congress members join 300 at antigun sit-in

Fresh from last week’s sit-in on the floor of Congress, seven U.S. representatives brought their call for new gun control laws on Wednesday to the front door of Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, which treats many victims of gun violence.

“No more moments of silence,” House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-San Francisco, said. “No more silence.”

Pelosi and her colleagues told about 300 supporters that House Republican leaders’ offer to schedule a moment of silence for victims of the Orlando massacre instead of scheduling a vote on a bill to ban gun sales to people on the federal no-fly list was “unacceptable.” She wondered aloud whether some of her Republican colleagues were “wholly owned subsidiaries” of the National Rifle Association.

It was billed as a “family sit-in” although, this time, none of the members of Congress sat, as they did during last Thursday’s House sit-in.

A ‘health epidemic’

They stood in the plaza near the hospital’s front door, where they were joined by veteran trauma surgeon Peggy Knudson, still dressed in an operating gown. She called gun violence a “public health epidemic” and said she and her hospital colleagues treat 200 gunshot wound victims annually.

“We need to figure out how to treat this epidemic,” she said.

The members of Congress in San Francisco Wednesday, who also included Reps. Mike Honda of San Jose, Eric Swalwell of Dublin, Jerry McNerney of Stockton and Brad Sherman of Sherman Oaks (Los Angeles County), were joined at the podium by citizens who told of losing family members to gun violence and by Vallejo Police Chief Andrew Bidou, who said he believed in “responsible gun ownership.”

“Congress should pass background checks,” Bidou said. “It’s time, for all our communities’ sake.”

‘We’re going to win’

With so many Democrats eager to have a turn railing against the Republican House leadership, the rally lasted about an hour. Some members of Congress, standing in the afternoon sun, looked like they might have welcomed the chance to sit cross-legged again.

“We’re going to win,” said Rep. Barbara Lee, D-Oakland. “The public is with us. Just give us a vote, Mr. Speaker. Just give us a vote.”

“Some people shouldn’t be able to have guns,” said Rep. Mike Thompson, D-Napa. “Criminals, the dangerous mentally ill or terrorists shouldn’t be able to get them.”

Los Angeles Times: After gun control sit-in, California House Democrats bring ‘day of action’ home to constituents

Watching the Democrats’ sit-in on the House floor last week filled Mandy Pifer with pride — and the conviction that Congress will act on tougher gun violence laws.

Pifer, whose boyfriend, Shannon Johnson, was killed in the San Bernardino shooting Dec. 2, had the chance to offer her encouragement in person Wednesday at a roundtable discussion on advancing gun control hosted by Southern California House members at Los Angeles City Hall.

“Last weekend, I was watching the sit-in in the House. My heart was broken because it’s personal now,” Pifer said at a news conference following the discussion. “But for the first time in a long time, my heart was filled with love and pride, and I’m convinced that my representatives and our representatives aren’t going to stand silent anymore.”

Hundreds of similar stories were told at events around California and the U.S. on Wednesday as House Democrats held a “day of action” to keep attention on efforts to vote on expanded background checks for gun purchasers and to keep those on the FBI’s watch lists from legally purchasing guns…

To the north, at the Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco) spoke to supporters on Wednesday along with the Democratic Gun Violence Prevention Task Force Chairman Mike Thompson of St. Helena and other Bay Area House members. Several children sat on the stage holding signs saying, “Disarm Hate.”

“This needs to be people-driven,” Thompson said, urging the audience to contact their elected representatives about expanded background checks. “We need that message delivered to every member of Congress who’s not already standing with us.”

ABC7 News: Some Congress Members Using Social Media Pushing For Stricter Gun Laws

A week after Democrats in congress held a sit-in on the house floor, there was another sit-in and this one including places across the country including San Francisco General Hospital.

Some members of congress are hoping to rally the public in favor of stricter gun laws.

House minority leader Nancy Pelosi led a sit-in that was standing room only, joined by other Bay Area members of congress. “It will save lives, just give us a vote Mr. Speaker, just give us a vote,” Rep. Barbara Lee, D-Oakland, said.

Lee was among those who took to social media during the Democrats all-night sit-in at the capitol.

Rep. Eric Swalwell streamed it on Periscope. “I thought: ‘You know what? We’re already sitting down, why not break another rule and take out Twitter and Facebook Live and Snapchat and invite the American people in,”‘ he said.

Now, the Democrats want to use social media to help grow a movement.

KRON4: Democratic congressional leaders in San Francisco call for vote on gun control bills

Building on a sit-in staged by House Democrats in the nation’s capitol last week, Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi and members of the Bay Area congressional delegation on Wednesday gathered in San Francisco to call for House Republicans to allow a vote on gun control bills.

The rally at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital Wednesday afternoon brought Pelosi and U.S. Reps. Barbara Lee, Mike Thompson, Mike Honda and Eric Swalwell together with gun control advocates, gun violence survivors and local leaders as part of a national day of action on gun violence prevention.

The event is one of many held around the country Wednesday calling for a vote on federal bills that would expand background check requirements for gun purchases and prohibit those on the federal “no fly” list from buying guns, according to event organizers.

Pelosi, D-San Francisco, Wednesday said last week’s sit-in was held after Democrats were told there would be a “moment of silence” for victims of the Orlando nightclub massacre in the House but no vote on gun control legislation.

“People said no longer shall we have on the floor of the house a moment of silence following a tragedy that is just that, a moment of silence and no action,” she said. “Our message to our leadership is, give us a vote. No more silence.”

Congressman John Lewis (D-GA) Holds Town Hall on Gun Violence Prevention:

Atlanta Journal Constitution: John Lewis wants to extend gun revolt to Georgia

At center stage was Rep. John Lewis, who orchestrated last week’s headline-grabbing sit-in at the U.S. House, and other Democrats pushing for a vote on new gun restrictions as nothing short of a new phase in the civil rights struggle…

“You’re on the right side,” Lewis told a crowd of hundreds of supporters at a cramped room outside the church, the spiritual home of Martin Luther King Jr.

“We’re not going to take it anymore. We’re going to speak up, speak out and pull and push,” he added. “All across America today there are hundreds of members of Congress doing what we’re doing here. It’s a movement and we’re not going to quit.”

AP: Civil rights activist and congressman favors gun control

Prominent civil rights activist and U.S. Rep. John Lewis is urging voters in his Georgia district to join with House Democrats pushing for stricter gun control.

Lewis got a warm reception from those gathered inside a room at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta on Wednesday. He urged people who support changes to U.S. law on guns to “find a way to get in the way.” Lewis noted the 25 Democrats who held a sit-in on the House floor last week in favor of stronger gun controls following a recent nightclub shooting in Florida that left 49 people dead.

Lewis connected the current struggle to the civil rights movement: He said leaders of the movement were told that civil and voting rights laws could never pass, but they did.

TWC News: John Lewis Hosts Gun Violence Town Hall After House Sit-In

A week after representative John Lewis led a nearly 26-hour sit-in on the house floor, he held a gun violence town hall meeting in Atlanta.

Congressman Lewis was one of the many house Democrats holding such events throughout the country on Wednesday…

“You have to find a way to make a way out of no way.  Sometimes you have to find a way to get into trouble, good trouble, necessary trouble.  And that’s what we did.  We cannot afford to be quiet.  Not any longer” says Lewis.

Whip Steny Hoyer (D-MD), Congresswoman Robin Kelly (D-IL), Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Congressman Danny Davis (D-IL), Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) and Congressman Mike Quigley (D-IL) Join the National Day of Action; Demonstrate Support for Action to Stop Gun Violence Now:

ABC7: Gun Violence Rally Held in Downtown Chicago

The effort to end mass shootings ramps up Wednesday. It’s the National Day Of Action On Gun Violence Prevention.

In Chicago, people and politicians rallied at Federal Plaza.

Rallies were taking place across the country. They were organized by Democratic lawmakers and all have the same message – to create stricter gun laws.

Dozens staged a sit-in at Federal Plaza Wednesday morning to protest what they’re calling outdated, deadly gun laws.

Among the crowd: Democratic U.S. representatives, who last week staged a 26-hour sit-in on the House floor – demanding a vote on legislation to prevent known or suspected terrorists from being able to purchase firearms.

“The funny thing is, the sit-in was a spontaneous, organic event,” said Democratic Rep. Mike Quigley. “So we have to continue to be create and keep this groundswell of support to continue.”

Democrats are hoping the rallies Wednesday will pressure Republican lawmakers to do something to prevent tragedies, like the massacre in Orlando June 12.

“We are carrying on the fight to keep guns out of the hands of dangerous people,” said Rep. Robin Kelly.

FOX 32: Illinois lawmakers, families of gun violence victims hold rally in Chicago

Local congressional leaders converged on downtown Chicago Wednesday as part of a nationwide effort to raise public awareness about the current stalemate in Washington over gun reform.

The rally included Chicagoans who have lost children to gun violence…

The “National Day of Action” comes one week after House Democrats held a 24-hour sit in to protest congress’s failure to act following the Orlando nightclub massacre.

Chicago Representative Jan Schakowsky called out fellow lawmakers for repeatedly ignoring the proliferation of gun violence that has plagued her district and the nation.

“The House of Representatives has had 27 moments of silence…moments of silence for mass shootings and for the victims and our hearts go out and we say our prayers and then the gavel sounds and it’s back to business as usual,” Schakowsky said.

Congressman Xavier Becerra (D-CA), Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA), Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-CA), Congresswoman Judy Chu (D-CA), Congresswoman Karen Bass (D-CA), Congressman Alan Lowenthal (D-CA) Hold Press Conference Urging Vote on Bills to Prevent Gun Violence:

Los Angeles Times: After gun control sit-in, California House Democrats bring ‘day of action’ home to constituents

…After meeting privately with more than a dozen community members, family members of gun violence victims and leaders of the Muslim and LGBT communities Wednesday, House Democratic Caucus Chairman Xavier Becerra demanded a vote.

“America’s cities are becoming well known for sorrowful reasons. San Bernardino, Orlando, Charleston, Newtown, Columbine — we must do something, anything that can save even one life,” the Los Angeles Democrat said. “Congress owes us a vote, and if you don’t give us a vote, Congress, we’ll remember it in November.”

Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Los Angeles) told the crowd that “right-wing conservatives” are “hiding behind the 2nd Amendment and the Constitution.”

“We’re asking Paul Ryan to take this up on the floor of the House,” she said. “He’s spineless, he’s gutless, and we want to take this bill up and we’re going to stay in this mode, confronting until we get it done.”

Vice Chair Joe Crowley (D-NY) Holds Roundtable on Need for Action to Prevent Gun Violence:

Press Release: On National Day of Action, Vice Chair Crowley Convenes Roundtable on Need for Action to Prevent Gun Violence with Community Experts, Leaders, and Advocates

Rep. Joe Crowley (D-Queens, the Bronx), Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus, was joined by gun violence survivors, community and faith leaders, experts, and advocates in a roundtable to discuss the need for action to prevent gun violence. Last week, Crowley joined his colleagues in a historic, 26-hour sit-in on the House Floor to protest Speaker Ryan and House Republicans’ refusal to allow a vote on bipartisan legislation to address gun violence. During the sit-in, House Republicans recessed the House of Representatives without bringing gun violence prevention legislation up for a vote.

“From Queens to San Francisco, Americans’ outcry for action to prevent gun violence can be heard loud and clear,” said Rep. Crowley. “The American people have had enough, and I have too. All we are asking for is to hold a vote on common sense gun violence prevention legislation, yet Speaker Ryan and House Republicans are refusing to do even that. Each year, over 30,000 Americans die from gun violence. This is a life or death issue, and the time for action is now.”

Congressman Steve Israel (D-NY), Long Island LGBT Community to Hold Gun Violence Roundtable on “National Day of Action,” Day After Demanding a Vote on Floor:

Washington Post: House Democrats: Our gun protest isn’t going away

A handful of House Democrats renewed their floor protest of congressional inaction on gun control legislation Tuesday, shouting for recognition through a brief evening session and pledging afterward to continue their efforts to force votes on a “no fly, no buy” gun bill…

“The minority has lots of tools in a toolbox,” Israel said. “If Speaker Ryan insists on denying the American people a vote on ‘no fly, no buy,’ then we will reach into that toolbox and we will continue to avail ourselves of the tools. Some will be blunt. Some will be sharp. … We’re here to put the Republicans on notice — we’re not going quietly into the night.”

Roll Call: Another Gun Protest on the House Floor

A handful of Democrats attempted to use a brief housekeeping session of the House on Tuesday to draw more attention to the need for Congress to vote on gun control legislation.

…”Shame,” Rep. Steve Israel, D-N.Y., shouted after their attempts to get attention were rebuked…

“We will keep this going until we get a vote,” Israel said…

The Hill: Democrats stage protest during brief House session

…”If Speaker Ryan believed for a moment that we were going to spend 26 hours on the floor of the House and then go quietly into the night, today is a sign, again, that’s not going to happen,” Rep. Steve Israel (D-N.Y.) told reporters.

Congressman Scott Peters (D-CA) Tours Trauma Center and Calls for Action on Gun Violence at Pride Lighting Ceremony:

Los Angeles Times: After gun control sit-in, California House Democrats bring ‘day of action’ home to constituents

Rep. Scott Peters (D-San Diego) toured UC San Diego Medical Center’s trauma center before talking with domestic violence and mental health professionals about how they treat gun violence victims, pointing out how domestic violence, mental health and gun violence can intersect.

Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA) Holds Virtual Roundtable as Part of National Day of Action to Prevent Gun Violence:

Los Angeles Times: After gun control sit-in, California House Democrats bring ‘day of action’ home to constituents

…Rep. Doris Matsui (D-Sacramento) also used Facebook Live to speak with constituents early in the day. She later held a video chat with doctors with the UC Davis Health System.

Several members used social media to make their case throughout the day.

Congressman Bill Pascrell (D-NJ) Holds Press Event and Calls for Action on Gun Control:

New Jersey Star Ledger: House Democrats shift gun protest to N.J.

…”I saw one of my colleagues in Congress shot,” said Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. (D-9th Dist.), who plans a press conference in Saddle Brook with public safety officers and gun control advocates. “I saw 20 elementary school children killed in their classroom. I saw churchgoers killed while praying, and now the worst shooting in our nation’s history. It’s time that we listen to majority of the American people who support common sense gun violence prevention policies.”

Congresswoman Katherine Clark (D-MA), local leaders team up to demand action on gun violence:

AP: Congresswoman Katherine Clark is joining state leaders on the steps of the Massachusetts Statehouse to call for tougher gun laws, a week after she helped stage a sit-in with fellow Democrats on the floor of the U.S. House

Congresswoman Katherine Clark is joining state leaders on the steps of the Massachusetts Statehouse to call for tougher gun laws, a week after she helped stage a sit-in with fellow Democrats on the floor of the U.S. House.

Clark will be joined Thursday by Democratic officials including Attorney General Maura Healey, Congressman Joseph Kennedy, state Senate President Stan Rosenberg and Massachusetts House Speaker Robert DeLeo.

Clark says the goal of the noon event is to underscore what she says is the strong public support for measures like preventing gun sales to suspected extremists.

Democrats are demanding that Republican U.S. House Speaker Paul Ryan allow debate and a vote on gun legislation including universal background checks.

Republican leadership has rebuffed those demands.

Sudbury Patch: Congresswoman Katherine Clark Joins Boston Rally for Action Against Gun Violence

One week after Congresswoman Katherine Clark helped organize a sit-in on the floor of the U.S. House to demand a vote on gun control legislation, Clark is teaming up with local leaders to further demand action.

On Thursday, June 30, at noon, Clark will join Massachusetts legislative leaders, local mayors, and advocates to push for gun violence prevention measures on the steps of the State House in Boston.

As part of the Day of Action on Gun Violence, Clark joins Senate President Stan Rosenberg, Speaker Robert DeLeo, Attorney General Maura Healey, Congressman Joseph Kennedy and Sheriff Steven Tompkins. Representatives from gun safety organizations will also be in attendance.

Congressman Steve Cohen (D-TN) Hosts Gun Violence Prevention Meeting:

Memphis Commercial Appeal: Cohen talks gun violence prevention at Memphis event

Standing up and voicing her concerns was emotional for Tara Thomas, but she needed to be heard.

Thomas, who lost her 22-year-old son to a fatal shooting last year after an automobile accident, made a promise to him that she would stand up against gun violence in Memphis.

She was one of the at least four family members of victims of gun violence who were given a chance to speak Wednesday at a 90-minute gun violence prevention meeting hosted by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen at the Clifford Davis-Odell Horton Federal Building…

The meeting came just a week after House Democrats began a 26-hour sit-in demanding a vote on stricter laws for purchasing guns. Cohen hosted the meeting on the National Day of Action for gun violence prevention to get a better understanding of local views on Congress’ debate and what measures might help prevent gun violence in the city.

“I think we succeeded in what we wanted to do in getting the community engaged and getting some good ideas to share with the city administration, the police and other relevant individuals,” Cohen said.

Local Memphis: Rep. Steve Cohen Holds Forum On Gun Violence

Days after new gun control measures failed in both houses of congress, Congressman Steve Cohen brought several sides of the gun debate in one room for a forum Wednesday afternoon.

Rep. Cohen and dozens of others in the U.S. House staged a sit-in last week to demand a vote on tougher gun laws, after similar measures failed in the U.S. Senate following the deadly shooting rampage in Orlando, FL.

Rep. Cohen said the forum succeeded in giving gun control advocates an outlet to offer ideas. The democrat said he was deflated, but not deterred after the sit-in failed to get an up or down vote on a bill which would have banned those on the terrorism watch list from buying a gun.

“90 percent of Republicans in these polls are in favor of these bills, but the Republican congress won’t let them come to a vote,” says Rep. Cohen.

FOX 13: Memphis moms fight for stricter gun laws after shooting death of sons

Two Memphis mothers are fighting for stricter gun control laws after losing their sons in senseless shootings in 2015…

The mothers attended a town-hall discussion about gun violence prevention, hosted by local U.S. Congressman Steve Cohen.

“There’s a lot of action that needs to take place, and the public needs to make their voices heard, and I think they did it today,” Cohen said.

Cohen is one of several Democratic law makers hosting meetings about gun control to build support for stricter gun laws in local communities. He was one of several lawmakers who participated in a sit-in at the U.S. Capitol, protesting Republicans refusal to pass gun control legislation after the mass shooting in Orlando, FL.

“It will only happen if a large group of people in America rise up in their districts, and even come to Washington to let the Republicans know they’re on the wrong track,” Cohen said.

CBS Memphis: Lawmakers, leaders and community discuss solutions to gun violence

Stopping the bloodshed was the goal of a meeting at the federal building downtown to prevent gun violence.

With more than 80 homicides due to guns in Memphis so far this year people there demanded change.

Congressman Steve Cohen hosted the meeting as part of National Day of Action on Gun Violence Prevention…

Congressman Cohen helped organize the event after taking part in a 26-hour sit-in by Democrats earlier this month over gun control laws.

On Wednesday, Cohen looked locally for new ideas.

“I think making at least a second offense a felony of possession of a weapon illegally was a very good idea that came from a mother of a child who was killed,” he said.

Memphis Flyer: No Answer’ on Homicide Spike, Gun Violence

It’s easy to get guns, there are “hundreds and hundreds of thousands” of them in Memphis, and some city leaders had no answer as to why violent crime is on the rise here.

Those are some of the conclusions reached Wednesday during a panel discussion on gun violence in Memphis convened by Rep. Steve Cohen. The panel discussion brought together state, federal, and local leaders to hear Memphians’ views on the gun debate in Congress. Cohen wanted to hear what more could be done on the federal level to help prevent gun violence here.

Cohen noted that recent gun legislation failed in Congress. That legislative push came after a shooter killed 49 people in an Orlando nightclub.

WBRC: Community seeks answers for gun violence with public forum

Local, state, and federal officials gathered to hear from Memphians on how to stop gun violence.

One by one, parents of murdered children stood up.

“I just lost my son two weeks prior to his graduating from high school,” Tara Johnson said.

All of them were looking for answers to gun violence at the forum, hosted by U.S. Democratic Congressman Steve Cohen from Memphis.

“What can be done to protect the public from the violence in Memphis?” Cohen asked.

As many found, the question has no easy answer…

Congressman Cohen wants to bring the ideas from the forum back to Washington to come up with some kind of answer.

Congressman Hank Johnson (D-GA) Holds Conversation on Reducing Gun Violence in Georgia Office:

Atlanta Journal Constitution: Democrats try to keep pressure on guns after last week’s sit-in

It’s eerily quiet this week in the House’s half of the U.S. Capitol, but Democrats are still trying to make as much noise as possible on gun control while lawmakers are away from Washington….

John Lewis, D-Atlanta, who led last week’s sit-in, is holding a town hall on gun violence prevention at 11:30 a.m. at the Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, where Martin Luther King Jr. and his father were pastors.

At the same time today, Democrat Hank Johnson is scheduled to meet in Lithonia with the Georgia chapter of Moms Demand Action, a gun control group.

Congressman Mike Doyle (D-PA) Calls for Action to Stop Gun Violence at National Day of Action Event in Pittsburgh:

WESA Pittsburgh: Doyle, Democrats Promise Sustained Pressure On Gun Reform

On the heels of the sit-in staged by Democrats in the House of Representatives last week, one Pennsylvania Congressman took to the steps of Pittsburgh’s City-County Building on Wednesday to renew calls for lawmakers to hold a vote on proposed gun reforms.

After the 26-hour sit-in protest on the House floor ended with Republican Speaker Paul Ryan calling a recess, Congressman Mike Doyle (D-PA) said he and other Democrats plan to take up the gun reform issue again when the chamber reconvenes in early July.

Doyle said he still wants Ryan to call for a vote on two bills currently in committee: one that would prevent anyone on the federal “no-fly” list from buying firearms, and another that would institute a universal background check for gun buyers.

Doyle said Ryan has the influence to move the bills out of committee for a full House vote.

“If he refuses to make that commitment for us, well then, you stay tuned, because we’re not going to let this go,” Doyle said. “We want some action, and we want a vote.”

CBS Local: Doyle Leads Local Rally For Congressional Action On Gun Violence

If Republican House Speaker Paul Ryan refuses to schedule an up-or-down vote on “No Fly No Buy” for terrorists and universal background checks for gun purchases, another sit-in like that last week in the House is likely.

“If he refuses to make that commitment to us, then you stay tuned because we’re not going to let this go. We want some action, and we want a vote,” said U.S. Rep. Mike Doyle, a Democrat.

At a rally at the City-County Building, Doyle got encouragement from a number of citizens to continue the sit-in.

Congressman John Larson (D-CT) Hosts Call to Action on Gun Violence Prevention:

WSHU: On ‘Day Of Action’ Conn. Democrats Continue Push For Gun Reform

…Other members of Congress, including Connecticut First District Congressman John Larson, one of the leaders of the sit-in on the floor of the House last week, held similar National Day of Action events.

New York Times: House Democrats Try to Sustain Push for Gun Control

…the latest push feels like a breakthrough to others. Brandon McGee, a state representative in Connecticut, stood before several dozen people at a forum in Hartford hosted by Representative John Larson, one of the organizers of the sit-in, gesturing enthusiastically as he described what last week’s protest meant to him.

Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) and Congressman John Garamendi (D-CA) Host Roundtable with MPD Chief Lanier, and D.C. Victims of Gun Violence to Stress Need for Congress to Pass Universal Background Checks Legislation:

WJLA: Lanier, Norton join families of gun violence victims in calling for nationwide action

Families of gun violence victims and gun control advocates joined D.C. Police Chief Cathy Lanier and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC)in a meeting Wednesday at the Martin Luther King Jr. Library, calling for nationwide action for gun safety.

Lanier and Norton both spoke about how guns from neighboring states are turning up in the district.

“Without a national gun safety law, you can have the strongest gun safety laws in the country and they get immediately undermined,” Norton said.

WTOP: People touched by gun violence speak out in DC

Continuing the efforts of their sit-in on the floor of the House last week calling for more gun control, Democrats declared Wednesday a National Day of Action for Gun Violence Prevention.

Events were held around the country, including a roundtable at D.C.’s Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library.

It was organized by D.C. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton and included emotional testimony from people touched by gun violence.

AP: Md., DC Democrats continuing push for gun-control laws

Members of Congress from Maryland and the District of Columbia are continuing their push for gun-control legislation after last week’s sit-in on the House floor…

Also Wednesday, Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, a Democrat who represents the District in Congress, will host a discussion on legislation to require background checks for gun-show purchases. She’ll be joined by Democratic Congressman John Garamendi of California and Washington Police Chief Cathy Lanier.

The new gun-control efforts by Democrats in Congress were prompted by the mass shooting at a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida.

Congressman John Garamendi (D-CA) Holds Rally for Gun Violence Prevention with Facebook Live

Daily Republic: Gun safety rally in Vacaville draws dozens

More than two dozen people carrying signs, including “Disarm hatred,” heard messages Wednesday from Rep. John Garamendi via Facebook and Yolo County Supervisor Don Saylor in person supporting gun safety…

Garamendi was to kickstart the rally with broadcast remarks on Facebook Live, according to the release for the event…

Garamendi’s office emailed a statement Wednesday by the congressman.

“I’m a hunter, rancher, gun owner and a supporter of the Second Amendment,” the congressman said. “But I also believe that there are some basic things we can do to keep guns out of the hands of people who should not have them.”

He said he seeks universal background checks to close loopholes allowing the mentally ill or those with violent and criminal backgrounds to avoid screening and obtain weapons. The other reform is “No Fly, No Buy” legislation to prevent people on terrorist watch lists from legally obtaining firearms, Garamendi said.

“I believe that if our government believes you’re too dangerous to be allowed on an airplane, then you’re too dangerous to buy a gun,” he stated.

Congressmen Elijah Cummings (D-MD), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), John Sarbanes (D-MD), and Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD) Hold Day of Action for Gun Violence Prevention:

Baltimore Sun: House Democrats take push for gun control to home districts

Hoping to build on the attention they captured with a sit-in on the floor of the House of Representatives last week, Democratic lawmakers in Baltimore and across the country vowed Wednesday to keep pressing Republicans for votes on gun-control legislation but acknowledged that they have not yet developed a strategy to do that.

The lawmakers, who have returned to their districts for the July 4 congressional recess, held news conferences to reiterate demands for votes on legislation that would require tougher background checks and prohibit suspected terrorists from purchasing firearms.

Neither policy is likely to advance, given that similar legislation failed in the Senate this month, but Democrats sense that gun control might be a powerful political issue in this presidential election year and they are eager to put Republicans on record as opposing ideas that have broad support in national polls.

“Our message is very simple: There will be no more business as usual in the House of Representatives until we have an opportunity to take action on this issue,” said Rep. Chris Van Hollen of Montgomery County, who is running for the Maryland Senate seat being vacated by Sen. Barbara A. Mikulski. “So long as Congress does not take action in response to the carnage, Congress itself is implicated in that carnage.”…

The Baltimore event, staged on the steps of the Cathedral of the Incarnation, the cathedral church of the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland, also drew Reps. Elijah E. Cummings of Baltimore and C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger and John Sarbanes, both of Baltimore County…

“The speaker of the House called what we did a publicity stunt,” Cummings said. “I have a word for Speaker Ryan. Eighty-five percent of Americans have said … that those who are suspected terrorists should not have guns. Duh.”…

Ruppersberger said Ryan was playing “hardball,” and took a swing at the GOP’s presumptive presidential nominee, Donald Trump, without naming him.

“I’m getting really tired as an American to hear a certain individual keep saying we’re going to make America great again,” Ruppersberger said. “This problem with respect to people being slaughtered in our streets has got to stop.”

FOX Baltimore: Democratic lawmakers join others in Baltimore to rally support for gun restrictions

Maryland’s Democratic members of Congress joined faith leaders in Baltimore on Wednesday to urge House Republican leaders to take a vote on gun control legislation.

During a news conference outside a church in Baltimore, members of Congress gathered with Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Leana Wen, gun violence survivors, state legislators and faith leaders.

“When you got over 32,000 people in this country who are dying from gun violence, enough is enough,” U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) told the crowd…

Cummings was one of the Democratic representatives who staged a sit-in last week on the House floor demanding that House Speaker Paul Ryan call for a vote on at least two gun control measures…

Rep. Chris Van Hollen… is sponsoring a bill calling for a national licensing law for those buying handguns…

“Those are the two most obvious things that we need to do, and the things where you get 85-90% of Americans in agreement,” said U.S. Rep. John Sarbanes (D-Md.). “But to not even do those things is such a surrender in the face of this gun violence.”

ABC Baltimore: Maryland House Democrats rally in Baltimore for National Day of Action

It’s hard to imagine the terror of staring down the barrel of a gun, yet the trauma is something tens of thousands of people go through across the country each year…

“At some point we have to say enough is enough, we really do,” U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings, D-Baltimore, said.

Maryland’s House Democrats rallied Wednesday with local gun control advocates and faith leaders to stand-up for action to stop gun violence, saying the mass shooting in Orlando that killed 49 people nearly three weeks ago should be the final straw.

“Moments of silence may make members of Congress feel better about themselves, but they do absolutely nothing to end the gun violence across the country,” U.S. Rep. Chris Van Hollen said…

“This was the moment, and this was the issue where it was time to take a stand,” U.S. Rep. John Sarbanes said.

“When we’re totally shut down we have to do something, and that’s what we’re doing, we have to stand up for this gun violence issue,” U.S. Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger said.

CBS Baltimore: Maryland Citizens, Leaders Call For Congressional Action On Gun Control

Last week, Democrats staged an all-night sit-in on the floor of the U.S. Capitol, demanding a vote on gun control measures in the wake of the deadliest mass shooting in modern history in Orlando.

The 25-hour demonstration got them nowhere with Republicans, and now Maryland lawmakers are making another push, even though Congress is currently in recess.

At another demonstration today at the Cathedral of the Incarnation in Baltimore, U.S. Representative Elijah Cummings told a story about his own nephew, who was shot and killed in what is believed to be a botched robbery.

“… some folks busted into his door, we think tried to rob him, blew his brains out, and he died instantly,” he said.

Maryland Democrats Chris Van Hollen, Dutch Ruppersberger and John Sarbanes were also among those who joined police and community activists for a call to action.

AP: Md., DC Democrats continuing push for gun-control laws

Members of Congress from Maryland and the District of Columbia are continuing their push for gun-control legislation after last week’s sit-in on the House floor…

Maryland Democrats Chris Van Hollen, Elijah Cummings, Dutch Ruppersberger and John Sarbanes will talk about the gun-control measures they support during an appearance Wednesday at the Cathedral of the Incarnation in Baltimore.

Congresswoman Michelle Lujan Grisham (D-NM) Hosts Gun Violence Prevention Rally in Albuquerque:

KOB4 Albuquerque: Anti-gun violence rally held by congresswoman in Albuquerque

New Mexico Congresswoman Michelle Lujan Grisham hosted an anti-gun violence rally Wednesday as part of a national day of action.

Many people at the park where the rally was held had been affected by gun violence. Their message to Congress was simple.

“I personally am a mom and a teacher and I see how these lockdowns affect our students,” said Cheryl Haase. “If we expect our students to have to crouch in a corner quietly while they’re very frightened, I think that our lawmakers can step up and pass some common-sense gun laws.”

Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA) Joins Worcester Leaders for Community Rally as Part of National Day of Action to Prevent Gun Violence:

Telegram Gazette: People call for gun control at Peace Park rally in Worcester

Hoping to sustain momentum in the push for gun control after the country’s latest mass shooting, legislators, city officials and residents turned out for a rally Wednesday night at Our Neighborhood Peace Park.

“No one piece of legislation will solve all our problems,” U.S. Rep. James P. McGovern told dozens of people who gathered at the small park at Winslow and Pleasant streets on a balmy summer evening. “But there are sensible things we can do that can save lives.”

Wednesday night’s gathering was part of a national campaign led by Democratic lawmakers to push for gun control after the Orlando nightclub shooting June 12 that killed 49. Democrats, including Mr. McGovern, have said that in the coming weeks and months they will use alternative strategies to get their message across.

Mr. McGovern was part of a sit-in last week at the Capitol to call attention to what he and other lawmakers have said is the need for reasonable gun control measures.

MassLive: Officials say during Worcester rally that common sense gun laws needed to end senseless violence

…U.S. Rep. James McGovern, D-Worcester, joined House Democrats during recent a sit-in on the House floor as they demanded a vote on stricter gun laws after the mass shooting inside an Orlando nightclub.

“We are sick and tired of seeing more and more innocent Americans being gunned down in our schools, in our theaters, in our nightclubs and our communities,” McGovern said at the rally. “Enough is enough.”

The government needs to take appropriate action to better protect communities, he said. McGovern said Republicans refuse to debate common sense gun control measures such as having universal background checks and blocking gun sales to people on federal terrorist watch lists and no-fly lists.

Worcester Magazine: McGovern, local leaders hold Peace Park rally to discuss government gridlock on gun control

Fresh off a sit-in protest in which Democrats in favor of stricter gun control laws tried to force a vote in a U.S. Congress controlled by anti-gun control Republicans, U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern joined with local Worcester leaders to bemoan the current state of American politics around firearms and call for action, part of a National Day of Action to Prevent Gun Violence.

“There’s no one piece of legislation” that can prevent all gun violence, McGovern said. “But there are some common sense things we can do that can save lives.”

McGovern was the keynote speaker, but a variety of people and politicians representing many organizations and causes attended the rally at Peace Park at the corner of Pleasant and Winslow Streets.

Congressman Lloyd Doggett (D-TX) Holds Rallies on National Day of Action for Commonsense Gun Violence Prevention:

Texas Tribune: Democrats Push for Gun Control in Gun-Friendly Texas

Looking to capitalize on the news he and other Democrats made in Washington last week with their daylong sit-in on the House floor, U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett returned to his gun-friendly state on Wednesday trying to drum up enthusiasm for gun control.

At a rally in Austin with Mayor Steve Adler and local gun control advocates, Doggett praised the sit-in, which was House Democrats’ attempt to force a vote on gun legislation in the wake of the recent mass shooting at a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida, that killed 49 people.

“Sometimes, in order to stand up, you have to sit down,” Doggett said to applause…

…roughly 70 like-minded people joined Doggett at the Austin rally outside the Texas AFL-CIO building on Lavaca Street, holding up signs calling for lawmakers to “disarm hate.” One woman wore a shirt with the words “Gun Free UT,” the name of an anti-campus carry group at the University Texas at Austin.

News 4 San Antonio: Congressman Doggett meets with gun safety advocates in San Antonio

U.S. Congressman Lloyd Doggett met with gun safety advocates in San Antonio Wednesday as part of “National Day of Action for Gun Safety.”

The groups “Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense” and the “Peace Initiative” met with Doggett to show their support and to discuss how to raise awareness for gun safety legislation. Representative Doggett, who participated in last week’s Democratic sit-in at the House of Representatives, says the day was about empowering people to make change happen.

“Some of these folks have been involved for years in this struggle,” said Rep. Lloyd Doggett. “It’s largely been off the agenda. This is about empowering people and telling them that what they’re doing really makes a difference.”

Representative Doggett says he will continue working to help people fighting for gun safety legislation.

Austin American Statesman: Austin rally calls for tighter gun laws, criticizes GOP inaction

Dozens of protesters, including U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Austin, rallied Wednesday evening behind the Governor’s Mansion on Lavaca Street to call for stricter gun laws.

The rally comes on the heels of a 25-hour sit-in held by House Democrats at the House chamber in Washington, D.C., last week, calling for a tightening of the nation’s gun laws…

Doggett expressed frustration with U.S. House Republicans’ lack of desire to consider gun control laws.

“When it comes to gun violence, this Congress does what it does best, which is absolutely nothing,” said Doggett, who participated in the sit-in at the House chamber. “We don’t consider any legislation concerning gun violence or gun safety.”

KVUE: Dozens gather for Austin gun safety rally

Democratic lawmakers held rallies across the United States Wednesday during a National Day of Action against gun violence.

In Austin, dozens gathered to ask lawmakers to work together to end the type of tragedy they said they’ve become accustomed to over the years. It’s a situation Susan Nelson knows all too well…

Nelson now works with the non-profit organization Texas Gun Sense. The group co-sponsored Wednesday’s rally alongside Congressman Lloyd Doggett. He said he wants to work together with Republicans to find a middle ground and amend our nation’s gun laws.

“It’s an indefensible position to say that someone who is so dangerous, they can’t get on an airplane but they can get all the guns that they want to purchase,” said Doggett.

KENS5: National Day of Action on Gun Control sparks rally in San Antonio

…Texas Congressman Lloyd Doggett joined the historic Democratic sit-in one week ago on the house floor.

“NRA means not only National Rifle Association, but in the House, it means ‘No Republican Action’ because we have had no action,” Doggett said.

Doggett added that this national movement has no intention of taking guns away from law-abiding citizens or interfering with the Second Amendment.

KSAT 12: Gun control advocates meet in SA to demand change in DC

Gun control advocates gathered at the Putting An End to Abuse through Community Efforts Initiative offices Wednesday in San Antonio to raise awareness for new gun safety legislation.

U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, members of PEACE Initiative and Moms Demand Action got together to talk about gun violence. The event was among many taking place across the country.

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX) Holds Gun Violence Prevention Summit:

ABC 13: Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Pushes for New Gun Laws

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee is discussing the need for new gun legislation in the wake of the worst mass shooting in U.S. history in Orlando…

“Americans are losing their lives,” Jackson Lee says. “We must pass common-sense responsible gun legislation to reduce gun violence immediately.”

The congresswoman is joined by other local officials at the Mickey Leland Federal Building in observation of the National Day of Action on Gun Violence Prevention.

Texas Tribune: Democrats Push for Gun Control in Gun-Friendly Texas

…In Houston, U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, a Democrat who participated in the sit-in, held what she called a gun violence prevention summit.

Congressman Mark Pocan (D-WI), Community Leaders & Local Activists Hold National Day of Action Rally on Gun Violence Prevention:

The Madison Cap Times: Rep. Mark Pocan, Madison Mayor Paul Soglin and community leaders call for action on gun control at downtown rally

To Jim Nosal and his wife, gun control is an issue that is all too personal. Their daughter, Caroline, was shot earlier this year. Just 24 years old, she was killed at the Metro Mart on Cottage Grove Road in February.

On Wednesday night, Nosal attended a rally at the City-County Building for gun violence prevention. Organized by U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan, community leaders, activists and citizens gathered to express their support for what Pocan called “common sense measures” of gun legislation.

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