Professor Spencer A. Overton contributed to a brief, "Federal Actions to Engage Communities in Reducing Gun Violence," which presents a series of concrete actions the federal executive branch can take to reduce urban gun violence and ensure these efforts achieve lasting success.
Gun violence affects different areas of a community. In particular, residents are impacted on a mental, physical, and economic level. According to the brief, gun reduction work begins at the local level. The federal government has tools at its disposal to support local gun violence reduction, and it has the ability to promote four crucial objectives: "Reduce easy access to firearms for people at high risk of engaging in violence; improve trust between police and communities of color; increase investment in families and communities at greatest risk of violence; incorporate community engagement into prevention efforts."
These recommended actions follow a 2016 report, which examined the current policy and experiences of more than 100 people from communities affected by gun violence and the justice system. "Moving forward, continuing to improve data capacity and investing in research are essential steps to ensure that cities have the best knowledge and tools available to reduce gun violence and keep their residents safe."
The brief was produced in conjunction with the Urban Institute, Joyce Foundation, and Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, a public policy organization in which Professor Overton serves as president.