Everyday is a Mass Shooting

As I listened to a mother passionately pleading with her state government to justify the legality of assault weapons, I was struck by the depth of her frustration and grief. Her sadness at losing her child in a school shooting was almost unbearable. Yet, despite her pain, she demonstrated incredible strength by making her voice heard, refusing to be silenced, and advocating for common-sense policy changes.

At Souls Shot Portrait Project, we recognize that our focus extends beyond the mass shootings that often dominate the media. We primarily work with mothers and family members whose grief remains in the shadows, overshadowed by the next headline. Many of these individuals face a harsh reality where gunfire is an everyday occurrence.

Calling
Portrait of Michael John Miller, Bryan Miller’s brother, by B. Douglas Smith | mixed media 16" x 20" 2017

Our project was born out of collaboration with Heeding God’s Call to End Gun Violence, an organization founded by Bryan Miller. Bryan's brother was tragically killed by bullets from an illegal assault weapon, prompting Bryan to turn his personal loss into a powerful movement for change.

The issues surrounding gun violence are both simple and complex, shaped by layers of historical and public policies that have often neglected the well-being of all individuals.

As we approach the upcoming election, we encourage you to deeply research the backgrounds and policies of the candidates, from national to local levels. Your informed vote is a crucial step toward meaningful change and ensuring that our communities are safer for everyone.