Gun Violence Prevention Playlist

by 2022 DPF Peace Intern Sophia Barnett

A Playlist is a way of engaging with an idea or topic. They can be used as small group discussion starters, for personal devotions, or as a place to jump into a subject. 

On the subject of Gun Violence Prevention, here is:

…Something to break the ice: 

*Directions: Watch this current news report about gun reform.

  1. Ask for critiques about the current suggestions for gun laws.

  2. Have each participant create a suggested law that would be useful to them and their communities.

*Directions: The room should be set up in a circle for the warmup and discussion. Questions should be answered in a “go-around” style. Each participant—including facilitators—should answer the questions sequentially. 

  1. Say one word that comes to mind when you hear the word “protection” 

  2. Say one word that comes to mind when you hear the phrase “gun violence”.

…Something to Watch

Voices from Within

In the video, prisoners discuss violent crimes they committed, their subsequent deep feelings of sorrow and regret, and send a powerful message to the viewers about the negative consequences of carrying and using guns.

TedX: I was Almost a School Shooter

After growing up in painful, abusive conditions, Aaron Stark was on his way to an atrocity, until simple acts of kindness changed his life forever.


…Something to Read

  1. Nine Ways to Help Students Discuss Guns and Violence (berkeley.edu)
    Nine Ways to Help Students Discuss Guns and Violence
    How can educators respond to mass shootings in schools?

  2. Columbine by Dave Cullen
    David Cullen was one of the first reporters on the scene at Columbine High School after the mass shooting in 1999. In this book, he explores every nuance of the Columbine shooting, creating a stark and important picture of this tragic event.

  3. Gun Fight: The Battle Over the Right to Bear Arms in America by Adam Winkler
    This book is exactly what the title says: an exploration of the gun control debate in America. Winkler reports on both sides of the debate, highlighting some of the most intense moments in the feud over guns.

  4. The Harder They Come by T.C. Boyle
    In this novel based on a true story, literary icon T.C. Boyle takes on the issue of gun violence and its place in the American psyche. Following an ex-Marine as his son spins violently out of control, this book is a hard look at the violent legacies within our nation.

  5. Helping Survivors with Stress Management Skills
    ACA has numerous disaster mental health resources which help familiarize counselors with some of the skills needed for collaborating with survivors. Some useful fact sheets for crisis and disaster response:

…Something to Wonder

  • I wonder what the world would be like if guns did not exist….

  • I wonder will the government take in consideration the freedom and liberty for all….

  • I wonder can we create laws that protect our children from gun violence without compromising their safety…

…Something to Talk/Think/Journal About

  1. What is your reaction to the video? How did the video make you feel?

  2. What line/statement from the video made the most impact on you?

  3. What is the message that you took from the video?

  4. Why do you think young adults/adolescents sometimes start carrying guns? Using guns?

  5. Why do you think young adults/adolescents sometimes turn to violence? What are the causes?

  6. What can be done to prevent gun violence/carrying guns?

  7. Do you think there is too much gun violence around you? Give an example.

…Something to Do

  1. Take time to write to your local US Representatives to inform them of the fears and lack of safety in our school systems.

  2. Join current Peace and Justice groups within your community. Check out Everytown USA’s Solutions Page to find current activities.

  3. Create workshops and assemblies to address concerns and issues in the school community.

…Something to Pray

Heavenly Father God,

As we bear our souls and open our hearts to the pain of injustice that surrounds us.

We hold tight to the promise that You will strengthen us, help us, and uphold us with Your righteous hand.

As we cry out for those who have lost their lives to the injustice of gun violence.

We hold tight to the promise that You will wipe away every tear from our eyes.

As we continue to live in the world, sometimes in fear.

We hold tight to the promise that You will never leave us nor forsake us.

Thank you for always being a shoulder to cry on, a listening ear, and a loving God.

We ask that you send your angels to guide and protect us as we continue to journey forward.

We continue to pray as it is in heaven, so shall it be on Earth.

In Jesus name, we pray. Amen!