Delaware Takes a Bold Step Toward Safer Communities: New Office of Gun Violence Prevention and Community Safety Established

“Gun violence is not just a statistic—it’s a daily reality for too many Delaware families.” – Governor Matt Meyer

Delaware is sending a clear message: enough is enough.

On May 6, Governor Matt Meyer signed Executive Order #9, establishing the Office of Gun Violence Prevention and Community Safety—a major step forward in the fight to reduce gun violence and build safer, more resilient communities across the state.

A Human-Centered Approach to Public Safety

Too often, the conversation around gun violence is reduced to numbers. But behind each statistic is a name, a family, a neighborhood forever changed.

This new office, which will operate within the Department of Safety and Homeland Security, aims to go beyond reactive measures. Instead, it’s designed to take a coordinated, proactive, and community-driven approach that brings together government, advocacy groups, and local voices to implement real solutions.

Governor Meyer was joined at the announcement by leaders from advocacy groups like Everytown for Gun Safety, the Coalition for a Safer Delaware, and End Community Violence Now. The message was consistent: Delaware must lead, especially as federal action stalls.

What the Office Will Do

In its first year, the office will assess current programs, identify gaps, and build a statewide plan for coordinated action. Here’s what it aims to focus on:

• Coordinate state and local violence prevention programs.

• Facilitate data sharing and collaboration across agencies.

• Support community-based organizations by serving as a central point of contact.

• Advocate for common-sense gun policies in partnership with legislators.

• Develop trauma-informed, evidence-based strategies for violence intervention.

“This isn’t just about policy—it’s a promise to our communities,” said Traci Murphy, Executive Director of the Coalition for a Safer Delaware.

The Stark Reality in Delaware

The urgency is real. In 2022 alone:

• 124 Delawareans died from gun violence.

• Firearms became the #1 cause of death for children and teens in the state.

• Black men ages 15–34 made up only 6% of the population, yet represented 46% of gun deaths.

• The economic toll reached an estimated $1.3 billion, or $1,236 per resident.

These numbers underscore the need for a unified, data-informed, and compassionate approach.

Community Voices Lead the Way

The Office isn’t just about law enforcement. It’s about listening—especially to the people most impacted. As Rep. Mara Gorman put it:

“We are strongest when we work together, and we will make Delaware a place where no resident has to live in fear of gun violence.”

Lauren Footman, Executive Director of End Community Violence Now (ECVN), echoed the importance of trust and partnerships:

“This is a pivotal step toward sustained progress. It’s more important than ever to build public-private partnerships shaped by the people already doing the work.”

Looking Ahead

This Executive Order marks a shift—not just in structure, but in philosophy. Delaware is choosing to treat gun violence as a public health crisis, investing in prevention, intervention, and community support. It’s not a silver bullet, but it’s a serious, strategic commitment to long-term change.

And it couldn’t come at a more critical time.