Gun deaths and injuries in Minnesota: The Problem
In Minnesota since 1989, 6,202 people have died from gunshot wounds. Since 2002, annual gun homicides in Minnesota have increased 53 percent, and non-fatal firearm assaults have doubled. (More about firearm and firearm injuriesdeaths.)
We have a shared responsibility to keep guns out of the wrong hands. Preventing needless gun death and injury is not anti-gun, just as promoting seatbelt use is not anti-car. The United States has a violent crime rate similar to that of other industrialized countries. But lethal crime - the homicide rate -- is many times higher in the United States. The critical difference is easy access to guns.
Gun deaths and injuries in Minnesota: The Solutions
Join the PROTECT Minnesota campaign. We support:
- Requiring more consistent background checks for gun sales and transfers - not just when the seller is Federally licensed. Did you know that Minnesotans can legally buy guns without background checks in many places?
- More about background checks.
- Storing firearms securely to prevent theft, injury, and suicide.
- More about safe storage and suicide risks.
- Stopping illegal gun trafficking.
- More about illegal gun trafficking.
Sign the Protect Minnesota Resolution here.
What can you do to help?
- Advocate.
- Bring the resolution to a community, group, local official, church, or city council to sign. Click here to download a printer-friendly version of the resolution.
- Donate.
- Did you hear about us on the radio? Donate here to help us spread the word. As little as $12 can buy a radio spot.
- Educate.
- Safe gun storage saves lives. Distribute our booklet, Kids and Guns.
- Request a speaker or materials for your group meeting. Click here to request a speaker.
Is it possible to make change?
Yes. There are already efforts underway to change policy. To learn more about our work and how you can help, sign up for our email newsletter.
For more information on preventing gun deaths and injuries, and how you can get involved in Minnesota, go to: