Gun violence survivors, family members strike somber tone at DNC

Gun control advocates and survivors struck a somber tone during the final night of the Democratic National Convention, delivering an emotional plea for gun reform. 

Rep. Lucy McBath (D-Ga.), who lost her son to gun violence, Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting survivor Abbey Clements, Kim Rubio, who lost her daughter in the Uvalde, Texas, school shooting, and gun violence survivors Melody McFadden and Edgar Vilchez appeared on stage together in an emotional show of  unity. 

Each speaker shared their story and why they were advocating for gun reform. 

“I carry that horrific day with me,” Clements said, holding back tears. She said the colleagues and the first graders killed at Sandy Hook should “still be here.” 

Rubio described the day leading up to the Robb Elementary shooting in Uvalde, beginning with her daughter Lexi receiving a “good citizen” award. 

“Thirty minutes later a gunman murders her, 18 classmates and two teachers,” she said.; 

“Uvalde is national news,” Rubio said. “Parents reach out for their children. I reach out for the child I will never hold again.” 

Prior to the speakers’ appearances, the convention rolled out a video slamming former President Trump on the issue of gun control and praising Harris’s work on the issue. 

McBath, who ran for Congress on gun reform, called on attendees and viewers to take action on the issue.

“Our losses do not weaken us. They strengthen our resolve,” McBath said to applause. “We will secure safer futures that we all deserve. We will organize. We will advocate. We will run for office.” 

Following the onstage testimonials, gun violence survivor and former Arizona Rep. Gabby Giffords (D) appeared on stage with her husband Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.). Giffords recalled the “terrible, terrible day” when she was shot, as well as her long recovery. 

She went on to thank President Biden for checking in on her during her recovery and after and urged voters to support Harris in November.

“Kamala can beat the gun lobby. She can fight gun trafficking,” Giffords said. “Join me in voting for Kamala Harris.”