Rural America is facing a gun violence crisis often overshadowed by national attention on crime in large cities, and Mississippi is among the states affected.Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows some of the highest firearm homicide rates in the country are found in small, rural areas. Many of those communities are also struggling with high rates of gun suicide and limited access to mental health care.Throughout the past year, political leaders have frequently framed gun violence as primarily an urban issue. Advocates argue that narrative has stigmatized cities while diverting attention and resources away from rural communities experiencing significant firearm-related deaths.Supporters of broader prevention efforts say gun violence should be treated as a public health crisis rather than a political talking point. They point to the need for investment in violence prevention programs and behavioral health services in rural areas, along with policy changes aimed at reducing firearm deaths.Until the focus expands beyond urban centers, advocates warn that communities across rural Mississippi will continue to bear the impact of gun violence.
JACKSON, Miss. —
Rural America is facing a gun violence crisis often overshadowed by national attention on crime in large cities, and Mississippi is among the states affected.
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows some of the highest firearm homicide rates in the country are found in small, rural areas. Many of those communities are also struggling with high rates of gun suicide and limited access to mental health care.
Throughout the past year, political leaders have frequently framed gun violence as primarily an urban issue. Advocates argue that narrative has stigmatized cities while diverting attention and resources away from rural communities experiencing significant firearm-related deaths.
Supporters of broader prevention efforts say gun violence should be treated as a public health crisis rather than a political talking point. They point to the need for investment in violence prevention programs and behavioral health services in rural areas, along with policy changes aimed at reducing firearm deaths.
Until the focus expands beyond urban centers, advocates warn that communities across rural Mississippi will continue to bear the impact of gun violence.