Attorney General Merrick B. Garland and ATF Director Steven M. Dettelbach dedicated the new “Faces of Gun Violence” exhibit during ATF’s Inaugural Gun Violence Survivors’ Summit. Garland expressed, “As we remember those we have lost to gun violence, the Justice Department promises that we will strive every single day to honor their lives in our work,” emphasizing the commitment to ensuring safety from gun violence for all. Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco commended the survivors of gun violence for sharing their stories and engaging in discussions to prevent further tragedies, stating, “I thank the women and men of ATF for the work they do every day to keep our communities safe.”
ATF Director Dettelbach highlighted the significance of the exhibit, stating, “This exhibit both honors and tells the stories of the victims of firearms violence. And it reminds us to keep front and center the lives, the stories, and the courage of those who have been impacted by firearms violence.” The exhibit, featuring 118 photos of individuals lost to gun violence, serves as a permanent reminder of the mission ATF agents dedicate their careers to. The wall of photos will rotate annually to include new victims, while a digital kiosk provides biographies for each person, with plans for continuous updates.
The dedication of the “Faces of Gun Violence” exhibit marked the conclusion of ATF’s Inaugural Gun Violence Survivors’ Summit, which brought together over 200 survivors, law enforcement officials, U.S. Attorneys, healthcare professionals, and victim advocates. The Summit included discussions on various aspects of gun violence, including experiences of survivors, domestic violence, and the impact on law enforcement. By fostering dialogue and understanding, the Summit aimed to raise awareness about the devastating effects of gun violence and ATF’s efforts to combat it.