Uniting for Change: Rio Grande Valley Gun Violence Prevention Forum
On September 9th, 2023, in the heart of McAllen, Texas, a significant event took place that ignited discussions, fostered unity, and brought together communities in a shared commitment to address the pressing issue of gun violence. The Rio Grande Valley Gun Violence Prevention Forum proved to be a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue around this critical issue. This event featured distinguished speakers and prominent figures exploring solutions to create a safer future for the Rio Grande Valley (RGV), drawing in attendees from all walks of life, all driven by the same goal: to address and prevent gun violence in our communities. The forum took place at the Casa de Palmas Hotel and was simultaneously streamed live online.
The forum featured a diverse array of speakers, each offering unique perspectives and insights into the complex issue of gun violence while addressing gun safety, gun violence statistics in the RGV, and the impact of gun-related injuries and deaths on children, families, and communities in Texas. The discussion was brilliantly moderated by Ms. Yulieth Botello, a local news anchor for Telemundo40 NBC Universal.
Rose Williams, a leader in trauma-informed care at University Health and Executive Director of Big Mama’s Safe House in San Antonio, began the forum by discussing the BeSmart Program. Also, Rose presented on the role of gun safety in preventing gun violence at home, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and the importance of trauma-informed care. Following Rose, Dr. Ruby Charak, an Associate Professor at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) and Director of the Adversities in Childhood and Trauma (ACT) Studies Lab, discussed the cascading traumatic effects of gun violence exposures among victims, survivors, and families. She was accompanied by Martha Flores-Rangel, mother of gun violence victim Jolissa Rangel, who shared her story as a survivor and her advocacy efforts through a local organization, the Rio Grande Valley Families and Friends of Murdered Children. These presentations were followed by a break during which attendees and panelists were able to mingle.
Following the break, the forum continued with Dr. Archie Bleyer, Clinical Research Professor at Oregon Health Sciences University, and Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Texas McGovern Medical School. He presented and discussed new statistics on firearm violence in the Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Bleyer’s presentation was followed by Dr. Carlos Palacio, a renowned trauma surgeon in the Rio Grande Valley, who discussed second victim syndrome in trauma. Dr. Palacio’s presentation was followed by a question-and-answer session moderated by Yulieth. The forum encouraged active participation from attendees. The panel discussion allowed for open dialogue where attendees asked questions, shared their thoughts, and proposed potential solutions. The discussions served as an invaluable platform for brainstorming practical strategies to prevent gun violence and provide support to affected communities.
The event concluded with a resounding call to action by Texas State Representative Vikki Goodwin, a strong advocate for gun violence prevention. She addressed the audience with a passionate speech that emphasized the importance of passing legislation aimed at curbing gun violence. Attendees were encouraged to engage with their local representatives, advocate for policy changes, and get involved in community organizations dedicated to addressing this issue. The event emphasized that the fight against gun violence is not limited to a single forum but an ongoing commitment that requires dedication, collaboration, and determination.
