On Parkland anniversary, Oxford student joins new statewide organization in fighting gun violence

DETROIT, Mich. - During a Zoom teleconference on Monday a group of Michigan leaders announced a new effort called End Gun Violence Michigan.

The group is comprised of multiple organizations and people affected by gun violence. Its steering committee includes members of March For Our Lives, the Episcopal Diocese of Michigan, Michigan United, the Charles W. Reid Community Center, Oakland Forward, Church of the Messiah, Interfaith Action of Southwest Michigan and the Council of Baptist Pastors of Detroit.

Background: 4 killed, 7 injured in shooting at Oxford High School

“From big cities like Detroit to small towns like Oxford, gun violence is tearing our communities apart. We can’t stand by anymore while more people, including our children, are killed. Our message to the legislature is simple: make change or we’ll take common-sense gun violence prevention measures to the people,” said Bishop Bonnie Perry of the Episcopal Diocese of Michigan, “We can have safety and a sensible gun culture in our state.”

Group organizers say they intend to encourage the legislature to take action. Members are considering reforms such as universal background checks, safe storage measures that require guns in homes with children to be secured, and prohibitions on guns at government buildings like the state Capitol.

Kiley Myrand, a junior at Oxford High School who’s friend was one of those killed in the shooting, was on the call. She described being locked in a classroom, waiting to throw her textbook at a gunman, and the effects it has had on her in the days since.

”What happened to my community should never happen to anyone else,” she said.

Organizers say that, if the legislature does not act, they will consider starting a ballot initiative.

Read: Michigan launching new program to help homeowners experiencing hardship

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