CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – The “Our Children Deserve Better” bus tour on gun violence is expected to make its way to Clarksville at noon on Saturday, August 12 at Patriots Park, 3176 Fort Campbell Blvd.
The bus tour is made up of Tennessee lawmakers, gun reform advocates and concerned citizens who want to address Tennessee’s gun violence epidemic, according to a news release sent to Clarksville Now.
The news release said that gun violence ranks as the leading cause of death for children in Tennessee, and “it’s time for the state legislature to take substantive action during the upcoming special session.” According to their reports, the latest CDC research shows that 1,569 Tennesseans were killed by firearms in 2021, which is a record number.
The bus tour was put together by “Our Children Deserve Better”, a 501(c)(4) organization whose mission is to reduce gun violence. They plan on traveling around the state of Tennessee up until the special session in Nashville, which is scheduled for August 21.
With 10 days until the special session, members of the tour are looking to hear from members of the Clarksville community and their opinions firsthand.
Tennessee lawmakers voice their concerns
Representative and chairman of the House Democratic Caucus John Ray Clemmons said in the news release, “The bus tour was borne out of frustration, sadness and fear felt by thousands of parents and students following the Covenant School shooting in March.
“Sitting in Nashville and spinning our wheels inside the Capitol while families across this state continue to worry about their children’s safety is not an option,” said Clemmons in the news release. “Those of us who believe that our children deserve better are hitting the road to hear from families in their communities and share information. We encourage everyone who cares about this issue, regardless of political affiliation, to join us and get on board for gun safety.”
Senator Raumesh Akbari, who is serving as the Senate minority leader, said in the news release that families shouldn’t have to live in constant fear that their children may not make it home. Akbari added to her comments by saying, “It’s time to put politics aside and work for the safety of every Tennessee family.”
Three speakers are scheduled to speak during the event, which includes Montgomery County’s very own State Representative Ronnie Glynn.
Stefi Outlaw, who is the president of the CMCEA, will also speak in addition to Allie Phillips, who is a mother of a public-school student.