Time: 2024-06-23
Unveiling of Custom-Designed WNBA Mystics Knotted Gun Sculpture and 988 Lifeline Awareness Amplified in Sold-Out Capital One Arena as Washington Mystics Hosted Caitlin Clarks Indiana Fever. The Non-Violence sculpture, or Knotted Gun, adorns the entrance to the United Nations as a permanent, compelling monument. The Non-Violence Project announced today the integration of 988 Lifeline awareness across the platforms of its communications and programs. The Mystics have a long tradition in embracing gun violence prevention across the Capital Region and among their avid fan base. Ticket demand was so high the team relocated to Capital One Arena where the game sold out in less than 30 minutes.
National Gun Violence Awareness Month provides a stage to educate on the statistics and conditions leading to violence and self-harm. The WNBA and Washington Mystics took center court, emphasizing the importance of addressing a public health crisis claiming over 40,000 American lives annually. The Non-Violence Project Artist Ambassadors included cultural icons like Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr. The sculpture was painted by award-winning illustrator Jess Goldsmith, selected for her talent and commitment to the issue. Nick Wilson, senior director of gun violence prevention at the Center for American Progress, stressed the importance of educating gun owners about securely storing firearms and advocating for stronger gun laws.
The Non-Violence Project, founded in 1993, promotes social change through awareness and educational exercises to reduce violence in society. To date, 10 million students and teachers have been instructed in non-violence principles, reducing violence in communities where the project is applied. The Why Knot NY? initiative is a campus-based curriculum offered to New York City high schools, applying conflict-resolution, peace-building, and violence-prevention principles. Artist-Ambassadors have included Yoko Ono, Muhammad Ali, Paul McCartney, and Ringo Starr. President Barack Obama hailed the organization as one of the best youth education programs globally.
988 is now the three-digit dialing code that routes callers to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. When people contact the 988 Lifeline, they are connected to trained crisis counselors who provide free and confidential emotional support. Studies have shown that callers feel less suicidal, less depressed, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful after speaking with a 988 Lifeline crisis counselor. The network of over 200 crisis centers has been proven effective in providing support to individuals in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. The previous 988 Lifeline phone number will always remain available to those in need.
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