Gun violence among Latinos in the United States has risen sharply in recent years, with survivors often facing steep medical bills and limited access to mental health resources. Between 2014 and 2020, the number of Hispanics killed by guns increased by 66%, compared to a 34% rise in overall gun deaths nationally, according to the Giffords organization.
The impact of gun violence on Latino communities extends beyond immediate injuries, with long-lasting financial and emotional consequences. Survivors can face medical bills upwards of $200,000, and many struggle to afford follow-up care and mental health support. Cultural stigma and distrust of institutions can further prevent Latinos from seeking help.
Organizations like COMPASS Youth Collaborative in Hartford, Connecticut are working to address these disparities by providing support to at-risk youth. Diego López, a former gang member turned community worker, uses his personal experiences to reach out to young people affected by gun violence.
Experts emphasize the need for culturally sensitive approaches to mental health support and violence prevention in Latino communities. Jacqueline Santiago Nazario, CEO of COMPASS, believes that “violence is a public health issue, as is poverty.”
The article highlights the urgent need for more research and resources to address the disproportionate impact of gun violence on Latino communities, as well as the importance of community-based organizations in providing critical support to survivors and their families.
See “The Price of a Gunshot” (April 24, 2024)
