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Special recognition of June 2026 as Gun Violence Awareness and Prevention Month.
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SPECIAL RECOGNITION
WHEREAS, in Lake County, in 2025, there were 11-gun violence-related homicides and 30 suicides by firearm; and
WHEREAS, in Lake County, firearm homicides were down 21 percent and non-fatal firearm injuries were down 29 percent, from 2024 - 2025; and
WHEREAS, there were 1,267 children and teenagers killed and 3,216 injured by violence incidents in the United States, indicating as a country, we have more work to do; and
WHEREAS, Gun Violence Awareness Month was created to draw attention to the gun violence epidemic in the United States and to advocate for life-saving changes; and
WHEREAS, the Lake County Gun Violence Prevention Initiative, supported by the Lake County Board and led by the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office, began in 2022; and
WHEREAS, the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office continues to partner with law enforcement and community to address the root causes of gun violence, promote awareness of the issue through public outreach campaigns, and implement proven short- and long-term strategies to interrupt cycles of gun violence; and
WHEREAS, Lake County is committed to encouraging gun safety; responsible, lawful gun ownership; and the reduction of gun violence in Lake County to keep our children and communities safe.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RECOGNIZED, that this County Board of Lake County, Illinois acknowledges June 2026 as Gun Violence Awareness and Prevention Month; and
BE IT FURTHER RECOGNIZED, the Lake County Board encourages residents to honor and remember the victims and survivors of gun violence and to actively support community efforts that promote safety and prevent violence throughout Lake County.
DATED at Waukegan, Illinois, on June 9, 2026.