Acting Milwaukee mayor proclaims first week of February as National Gun Violence Survivors Week

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Acting Mayor Cavalier Johnson proclaimed the first week of February as National Gun Violence Survivors Week in Milwaukee.

The purpose for the proclamation is to recognize and support victims and survivors, while committing to reduce gun violence in the community. 

Johnson was joined by the city of Milwaukee's Office of Violence Prevention and other community organizations when he read the proclamation at City Hall on Tuesday. 

"All of us have experienced in some form or fashion, the effects of gun violence in this community," Johnson said. "I have two cousins in recent years who unfortunately were shot."

HAPPENING NOW: Acting Milwaukee Mayor @CavalierJohnson is proclaiming Feb. 1 to Feb. 7 as National Gun Violence Survivors Week in the city. @CBS58pic.twitter.com/Wbg8CU2tLR

— Gabriella Bachara (@GabbyBachara) February 1, 2022

Johnson and representatives from community organizations called on state leaders to reform gun laws.

"Until we strangle to a trickle, the deluge of guns that are flooding our streets, the tragic, unenviable club of gun violence survivors will continue to grow," Milwaukee Program Manager for the Brady Campaign and Center to Prevent Gun Violence Anneliese Dickman said.

The group also thanked the survivors who have come forward to share their stories.

National Gun Violence Survivors Week starts Feb. 1 and ends on Feb. 7.