A Statement on Recent Gun Violence
Statement by The Graduate & Professional Student Assembly (GAPSA)
University of Pennsylvania
June 9, 2022
This past weekend our community suffered the tragic loss of three Philadelphians in a mass shooting event. This shooting took place only three days after the hospital shooting in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and within two weeks of the elementary school shooting in Uvalde, Texas. The Graduate & Professional Student Assembly (GAPSA) is grieving the loss of the recent victims of gun violence. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends, and loved ones of the victims and all of those who have been impacted by these events. However, we believe that thoughts and prayers are not sufficient to ameliorate gun violence and prevent the loss of innocent lives. As GAPSA, we strongly condemn these violent acts and we call on our federal, state, and local legislators for meaningful violence prevention measures and gun policy reform.
We know that these recent incidents have raised additional safety concerns among Penn students, faculty, staff, parents, and affiliated communities. In the wake of these heartbreaking events, we encourage Penn-affiliated individuals to explore and access the Public Safety and Wellness resources listed below.
In these challenging times, please continue to take care of yourself and each other. Let us know how we, as GAPSA, can continue to support you all as we stand against these senseless acts of violence and stay strong together.
PUBLIC SAFETY RESOURCES
Walking Escort Services: 215-898-WALK/9255 or 511 from a Campus Phone
On-Request Eventing Shuttles: 215-898-RIDE/7433 or PennRides on Request app
UPenn Alert: Opt-in program for alerts and updates by the Department of Public Safety
ReadyPhiladelphia Program: Opt-in program for emergency alerts from the City of Philadelphia
WELLNESS RESOURCES
If you have any doubt about where to turn, Penn’s HELP Line is available 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, at 215-898-HELP.
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS): 215-898-7021
Student Health Service (SHS): 215-746-3535
Student Intervention Services: 215-898-6081
Office of the Chaplain: 215-898-8456