Three days after a mass shooting at a Texas elementary school left 19 children and two adults dead, protesters gathered outside the National Rifle Association’s (NRA) annual convention in Houston, decrying gun violence in the U.S. The event, held just 400 kilometers from the site of the May 24 tragedy, sparked outrage among activists and families demanding legislative action.
Grief Turns to Action
The 18-year-old gunman’s attack — one of over 200 mass shootings in the U.S. this year — reignited debates on gun control. Protesters outside the NRA gathering carried signs reading 'Protect Kids, Not Guns' and chanted calls for reform, contrasting sharply with the convention’s focus on firearm advocacy.
A Nation Divided
Data from the Gun Violence Archive shows U.S. firearm deaths surged to 45,000 in 2023, with mass shootings disproportionately impacting schools. Youth-led groups, including survivors of previous attacks, joined Houston’s demonstrations, urging lawmakers to address what the CDC now calls a 'public health crisis.'
Global Echoes
As international audiences track U.S. gun policy debates, the protests highlight growing pressure for cross-border collaboration on violence prevention. With 64% of Americans supporting stricter gun laws according to Pew Research, the Houston rally underscores a generational shift in demanding accountability.
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Protesters outraged at NRA convention days after Texas school massacre
cgtn.com
