Whereas:

• The legal firearm buyback program does not address the root causes of violence in Canada and represents a significant use of public funds;
• Mental health and support for people in distress are key factors in preventing violence and strengthening safety in our communities;
• Community organizations and mental health services need real funding to provide direct support to vulnerable people;
• Investing in mental health would help ensure that interventions can occur before a situation becomes tragic, help support people in distress and their loved ones, and help strengthen safety in our communities;
• It is crucial to use public funds where it really matters—mental health, support for seniors and assistance for vulnerable people—rather than to purchase and destroy firearms;
• As long as these needs remain unaddressed, violence will continue to affect our communities.

We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to end the gun buyback program and redirect funds to practical mental health services, including support for community organizations, psychiatric care, and resources for people experiencing homelessness.