Gun violence took the lives of 17 students and teachers at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida. Mass shootings like this feel horrific and senseless, but the truth is many shooters display a clear warning sign--they have a history of violence against women. 

Just like the Pulse nightclub and Sutherland Springs, Texas murderers and so many more, the 19-year-old in Florida abused his ex-girlfriend and stalked another classmate. At least 54 percent of mass shootings in the United States are connected to intimate partner violence. These men should never be able to own guns in the first place.

Right now, federal law blocks domestic abusers from owning guns, but there are multiple loopholes that stop this from being the reality. Bipartisan bills to update the law have been introduced and we cannot accept inaction from Congress. "Thoughts and prayers" from lawmakers who accept money from the NRA to pay for their inaction will not stop the violence. That's why UltraViolet members want to remind Congress every time a tragedy like this happens--domestic abusers should never have access to guns. Will you add your name?

Photo Credit: John McStravick