The Heartland Coalition Against Gun Violence is a loosely organized group of 38 organizations concerned with the spread of gun violence in our culture.

The Coalition was organized in 2014  by Grandparents Against Gun Violence (www.moksgagv.org)  and is based on the belief that like-minded local groups would be more successful if they worked together to further the cause of reducing gun violence, and to build a critical mass of supporters. Through its sponsoring organizations, it represents more than 10,000 individuals.

A primary function of the Heartland Coalition is to sponsor community forums to educate the public about the issue of gun violence and promote action steps to reduce it. 

There have been six forums to date:

2016 – Gun Violence. The Culture of Fear

For the first time, the 2016 Forum featured a nationally known keynote speaker: Leonard Pitts, Pulitzer Prize winning columnist syndicated in newspapers across the country.

2017 – Gun Violence. Keeping Our Children Safe

The 2017 Forum was attended by over 200 participants and featured keynote speaker is Nicole Hockley, mother of Dylan Hockley, who lost his life at Sandy Hook.

2018 – Gun Violence. Changing the Conversation

The 2018 Forum was attended by 250 participants and featured keynote speaker Candace Lightner, founder of Mothers Against Drink Driving (MADD)

2019 – Gun Violence. Insights From Both Ends of the Gun

The Forum featured keynote speakers Azim Khamisa and Ples Felix and was attended more than 280 people.

2020 – Gun Violence. Going Beyond Thoughts and Prayers

Our 7^th annual and first ever Virtual event. Featured leaders in the Faith, Business and Government communities sharing their current actions and plans for the future.

Other activities of the Heartland Coalition include commemorating the Decvember 14 anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy and participating in June 2 Gun Violence Awareness Day.