Survivors Empowered

06/19/2026

reminds us that freedom, dignity, and opportunity should belong to every person, and that the work of building a more just society continues.

06/18/2026

Join guest Penny Okamoto of Survivors Empowered on as she discusses what happens to you when you learn about gun violence survivors...

Podcast Episode · RADIO GAG - The G**s Against Guns Show · June 12 · 42m

06/18/2026

At Survivors Empowered, we know that healing does not end when the sirens fade. Trauma continues long after the headlines disappear. That is why we use Pride Month to:

Share survivor-centered resources and rights-based education.

Promote trauma-informed support for survivors, families, friends, and communities.

Advocate for policies that reduce gun violence and protect LGBTQ+ people and other vulnerable communities.

https://survivorsempowered.org/pride-holds-joy-and-grief-in-the-same-hands/

06/15/2026

The Supreme Court's decision in NSSF v. James is a win for accountability -- and for reducing deaths and injuries from gunfire!

Gun dealers and manufacturers who knowingly enable straw purchases, trafficking, or illegal sales should not get a free pass simply because they sell fi****ms.

The decision helps laws like Colorado's Jessi's Law, named for Aurora shooting victim Jessi Redfield Ghawi -- and the daughter of Sandy Anglin Phillips and Lonnie Phillips, to hold bad actors accountable.

No industry should be above the law. Not Big To***co. Not Big Pharma. Not the Sacklers. Not the gun industry.

06/10/2026

Pride Holds Joy and Grief in the Same Hands

Pride Month is a celebration of identity, resilience, and community. It is also a time of remembrance. For many survivors, joy and grief exist side by side. We can celebrate who we are while acknowledging the violence that has shaped so many lives—and recommitting ourselves to building a safer future.

This June marks 10 years since the Pulse Nightclub shooting in Orlando. On June 12, 2016, a gunman entered Pulse during Latin Night and murdered 49 people, wounded 53 others, and terrorized hundreds more. Many of those who survived the initial gunfire endured hours trapped inside the nightclub, with some held hostage by the shooter while desperately waiting for rescue.

We remember those whose lives were stolen, those who survived their physical injuries, and the countless family members and loved ones whose lives were forever changed. We also acknowledge the invisible wounds carried by survivors who escaped without physical injury but continue to live with the trauma of that night.

We extend our profound gratitude to the first responders who answered the call: the police officers, firefighters, paramedics, EMTs, dispatchers, trauma surgeons, emergency physicians, nurses, hospital staff, and countless others who worked through unimaginable circumstances to save lives. They witnessed profound suffering and loss while providing care under extraordinary pressure. Their service came at a personal cost, and their experiences deserve recognition and compassion as well.

At Survivors Empowered, we know that healing does not end when the sirens fade. Trauma continues long after the headlines disappear. That is why we use Pride Month to:

Share survivor-centered resources and rights-based education.

Promote trauma-informed support for survivors, families, friends, and communities.

Advocate for policies that reduce gun violence and protect LGBTQ+ people and other vulnerable communities.

The legacy of Pulse is one of heartbreak, but it is also one of courage, love, and solidarity. Every survivor deserves dignity. Every family deserves support. Every community deserves safety.

As we honor the memories of those lost ten years ago, we renew our commitment to creating a world where no one has to fear violence simply because of who they are or whom they love. Pride calls us not only to celebrate—but also to remember, to advocate, and to act.

06/07/2026

For those impacted by the shooting tonight in Toledo, please know the signs of shock and check in with your friends and loved ones.

Our hearts and resources are with Toledo.

06/07/2026

Mass shooting reported on June 6 at Toledo festival. Shooter still at large. If you are in the area and already away from the danger, please check yourself and your friends for signs of shock. Seek medical help if needed.

06/06/2026

Jessi’s Messages offers thoughtfully designed greeting cards and printed items created to honor grief, remembrance, healing, and hope. **sAgainstGuns

Proceeds help support the mission of Survivors Empowered.
https://survivorsempowered.org/jessis-messages/jessis-messages-collection-pride/

06/06/2026

Jessi’s Messages offers thoughtfully designed greeting cards and printed items created to honor grief, remembrance, healing, and hope.

Proceeds help support the mission of Survivors Empowered.
https://survivorsempowered.org/jessis-messages/fathers-day-collection/

06/02/2026

Keep safe and peaceful!