This past week, you’ve all heard about the aftermath of gun violence in my hometown of Chicago. You’ve also heard, once again, of other horrific events in our United States.

Did you know, also, that last week, for the first time, the New York Times asked us on their front pages to do something about it?

And what did they suggest?

The attention and anger of Americans should also be directed [in addition to the murderers] at the elected leaders whose job is to keep us safe but who place a higher premium on the money and political power of an industry dedicated to profiting from the unfettered spread of ever more powerful firearms.

Read the article here:  End the Gun Epidemic in America – The New York Times 

Is a climate of gun violence the world any of us wants for our kids and grandkids? Ask those who already live it; ask particularly our south- and west-siders. Absolutely not.

As a young nurse, on my first day on the job in a hospital in a Chicago suburb, the day nurse gave me report on a patient with GSW. I had no idea what that meant; I had to ask. Gun Shot Wound. Imagine my shock, my fear, my weak knees passing the police-monitored room. As nurses, we all have these experiences. And we don’t forget them.

I invite you to consider the article carefully. Some of our neighbors’ lives are threatened every day. Our nation’s moral well-being is at stake. Collectively, we have the power to eradicate this epidemic of gun violence; the Times suggestion gives us a start.