Community Letter from the Mayor City of Leavenworth

In a poignant Community Letter, the Mayor of Leavenworth confronts the escalating gun violence crisis in the United States, particularly in light of the heartbreaking events in Uvalde, Texas. The Mayor expresses deep empathy for the victims' families and emphasizes that the root causes of such violence are multifaceted, including mental health struggles, bullying, and social isolation. Highlighting that the U. S. has the highest rate of gun deaths among developed nations, the letter questions the effectiveness of current measures to prevent these tragedies.

The Mayor also draws attention to the alarming increase in hate crimes, referencing the second anniversary of George Floyd's murder and recent violent incidents motivated by hate. By calling for open dialogue and community engagement, the Mayor seeks to address the complex issues leading to violence and division. The letter strongly advocates for a united approach to finding solutions that resonate with the community's moral values. Through this communication, the Mayor aims to inspire action and foster a sense of shared responsibility in tackling these critical challenges. Ultimately, the letter serves as a rallying cry for residents to come together and work towards creating a safer, more inclusive society.