By Harry Bauer | Manager, Philanthropy
Disaster strikes communities in many ways. In the wake of the mass shooting tragedy in Lewiston, Maine on October 25th, 2023, the Maine branch of the American Academy of Pediatrics put together a plan to unite, support and create positive changes to prevent gun violence and promote gun safety in Maine.
The first part involved hosting town hall style webinars, along with other support programs, in the weeks after the shooting. That effort evolved to include legislative and community partnerships, and the establishment of Maine Providers for Gun Safety (MPGS).
The Maine Providers for Gun Safety held an inaugural rally which gathered hundreds of child health care providers to stand for gun safety. After the rally, more people continued to unite and participate in advocacy efforts and collaborate on projects. This included working with a contracted lobbyist and many other organizations to advocate for legislation around gun safety. That hard work led to passage of three comprehensive bills: 24-hour waiting period for gun purchases, institution of background checks and strengthening of the yellow flag law in Maine. This legislation could potentially save hundreds of lives.
The Lewiston shooting was another painful human tragedy, but it served as a catalyst for motivation and change.
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