Rep. Brewer Calls for Action Following Tragic Shootings in Cleveland
COLUMBUS – State Rep. Darnell Brewer (D-Cleveland) Monday made the following statement concerning multiple deaths at the hands of guns that occurred in Cleveland this past weekend:
“It is with a heavy heart that I extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of a 15-year-old, who tragically lost her life after being shot in the head on Saturday night near 63rd and Woodland. In another incident, two up-and-coming artists in the industry lost their lives to gun violence at a house party on Sunday morning. To anyone with any information leading to these tragedies, we ask that you come forward to local authorities with whatever information you may have.
As a state representative, I stand with both grieving families and friends during this unimaginable pain. While I acknowledge that the enactment of gun laws alone may not prevent such tragedies, I remain committed to exploring and implementing solutions to address the root causes of violence in our communities. All of these young lives were taken far too soon, leaving an unfillable void in the hearts of their families, friends, and our community. Our office mourns along with those impacted and is committed to advocating for real change,” said Rep. Brewer.
This tragedy puts a spotlight on an urgent need for programs focused on healing and the prevention of future violence. Rep. Brewer continues to call for:
- Increased Investment in Trauma Response: Ohio needs to fund trauma recovery initiatives that will help families and communities cope with the devastating effects of violence.
- Support for Violence Interrupters and Mediation Programs: House Bill (HB) 420 would help facilitate community conversations, intervention, and mediation. In our efforts to end the cycle of violence, we must alleviate tensions between individuals, organizations, neighborhoods, and other groups.
- The Creation of a Gun Violence Task Force: House Bill 421 would create a Gun Violence Task Force to study and recommend methods of preventing violence in Ohio.
Ohio House District 18 constituents can contact Rep. Brewer's office at Rep18@ohiohouse.gov or 614-466-1414.
For more information about Rep. Brewer or House District 18, visit https://ohiohouse.gov/members/darnell-t-brewer.