Statement Regarding Gun Safety & Gun Legislation

In light of the recent debate over whether counties should become 2nd Amendment  Sanctuary Cities and or Counties, the Charlottesville Clergy Collective, a group of interfaith clergy in the Charlottesville area, pledges to do the following:  

Advocate at the local and national level for laws that prevent or reduce gun violence.  This includes promoting universal background checks on all gun purchases and ensuring all guns are sold through licensed gun retailers. Our clergy members will advocate against laws that would increase the presence of guns in public places such as schools and houses of worship.

Connect with, and support, those who are directly impacted by gun violence. We will use our time, talents, finances, and physical presence to create a Charlottesville community that welcomes all people, and strives to keep them safe and fully included in our common life. 

Draw attention to the issue of gun violence in our culture and make the prevention of gun violence a regular part of our conversations and prayer time. We further pledge to educate ourselves and our community and to frame this issue in a worshipful theological context.  

Rev. Dr. Alvin Edwards
President, Charlottesville Clergy Collective