Memphis Lawmaker to Address Gun Violence at Democratic National Convention
In Memphis, a local lawmaker, Rep. Justin J. Pearson, is preparing to take the stage at the upcoming Democratic National Convention. His speech will focus on a pressing issue that’s making headlines across the country—gun violence, which is currently the leading cause of death for children in America.
The spotlight on gun violence is not new for Pearson and his fellow lawmakers, who are famously known as the “Tennessee Three.” Last year, they found themselves in hot water with the Republican leadership of the Tennessee legislature when they pushed for gun reform following the shocking Covenant School shooting. Their calls for change led to their expulsion from the House, a move that sparked both outrage and support from various communities.
However, not ones to back down, Pearson and his fellow representatives—Justin Jones from Nashville and Gloria Johnson from Knoxville—were reinstated soon after their dismissals. Their resilience has brought them to the national stage where they now have the opportunity to emphasize their message on a larger platform.
Speaking with reporters, Pearson shared, “The only way we create better solutions to [gun violence] is by having better leaders who really want to prioritize the voices of constituents. We need leaders who won’t silence the voices of elected representatives sworn to protect our communities.”
With gun violence being such a critical issue, Pearson’s message is straightforward—Tennesseans need leaders who are committed to listening and enacting real change. He believes that it is crucial to have conversations about gun control and public safety, especially when the statistics show that children are the most affected demographic.
Leading up to the convention, Pearson has had the chance to converse with high-ranking officials, including President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, who reached out to the representatives when they were expelled from the House. Their discussions have emphasized the importance of addressing gun violence not only in Tennessee but across the United States.
According to data, gun violence has tragically become the top killer of children in the country, surpassing even car accidents and other causes of fatality. This staggering statistic has prompted many citizens, including those in Memphis, to demand urgent action and new legislation aimed at preventing further tragedies.
At the convention, Pearson is expected to share stories that highlight the extent of the issue. He aims to shed light on the real human consequences of gun violence, discussing how it has affected families and communities in Tennessee. His goal is to inspire other lawmakers to join the movement for meaningful gun reform.
As discussions around gun violence gain momentum, the hope is that lawmakers from both sides of the aisle will prioritize the safety of children and work cooperatively on solutions to reduce gun-related deaths. Pearson’s speech is seen as a step towards igniting this conversation on a larger scale.
Notably, Pearson has gained widespread support from both local and national advocacy groups that are dedicated to reducing gun violence. These groups emphasize the need for comprehensive background checks, red flag laws, and other measures designed to keep firearms out of the hands of those who might harm themselves or others.
With upcoming elections, this issue remains at the forefront of many voter’s minds. Constituents across the state are eager to see how their lawmakers plan to approach gun reform, especially in light of the tragic events that have unfolded recently.
As Pearson prepares for his address at the Democratic National Convention, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation in the air. Many are hopeful that his words will resonate with not just his colleagues but also with a wider audience who face the grim reality of gun violence every day.
The Tennessee Three continue to be a powerful force advocating for the necessary change, and with Pearson’s upcoming speech, they have yet another opportunity to elevate their message, urging for a society where children can grow up without the fear of gun violence. This moment at the convention is not just about policy—it’s about the lives at stake and the future of countless American families.
As the convention approaches, all eyes in Memphis—and beyond—will be watching to see how Pearson’s message lands. Can he rally support for gun reform? Will his call to action spark a change in leadership and legislation? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the conversation around gun violence is far from over.
