Mass Shootings: Finding Compassion in the Aftermath

Mass shootings shake communities, leaving families and survivors with unimaginable loss. While debates often focus on prevention and policy, another pressing question remains: how can we respond with compassion and real support for those directly impacted? This conversation is an opportunity to step back from politics and focus on humanity. Together we’ll explore how people and communities can show up for victims, families, and survivors in ways that truly help.

• What does meaningful support for families affected by mass shootings look like to you?
• How can individuals, communities, and institutions respond in ways that ease grief and foster healing?
• In times of tragedy, what role should empathy and compassion play alongside calls for policy change?
• How do we balance the need for public conversations on causes and solutions with respect for grieving families?

Other questions:

• In what ways do public reactions — from leaders, media, and citizens — shape the aftermath of violence?
• What helps you personally process events like this without becoming more fearful or angry?
• How might moments like this influence future public conversations about safety and civility?

Join us for a respectful, solutions-curious conversation. You don’t need to be an expert—just willing to listen and share. All viewpoints are welcome, and we’ll use our small-group guidelines: listen to understand, speak from your experience, and assume good intent.

Please do your best to arrive at the beginning of the meeting – once we are in breakout rooms and the conversations have started, the meeting doors close to new arrivals. The breakout rooms open (and the doors close) approximately 15 minutes after the hour.

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