Team to recognize National Gun Violence Awareness Day and tip-off Wear Orange Weekend
For the second consecutive season in partnership with Everytown for Gun Safety and the Arizona chapter of volunteer-led Moms Demand Action, the three-time WNBA Champion Phoenix Mercury will dedicate Friday’s home game to raising awareness for gun safety. Tip-off against the Los Angeles Sparks is scheduled for 7 p.m.
In honor of National Gun Violence Awareness Day on June 2 and Wear Orange Weekend on June 2-4, Friday’s game will provide resources and education about how fans can get involved to help prevent gun violence. Just like a season ago, the Mercury are collaborating with Everytown for Gun Safety, a national nonprofit founded in 2013 that advocates for an end to gun violence, and Moms Demand Action, a grassroots movement of Americans fighting for public safety measures to protect people from gun violence and elevate the stories of those impacted by it.
The Friday night game will feature recognition of dozens of gun violence survivors and hundreds of Moms Demand Action volunteers in attendance, plus educational videos and graphics, and providing fans with information and resources on how to get involved.
Moms Demand Action Founder Shannon Watts will receive the Mercury’s Believe in Women Award in a video presentation in-game. The recognition was launched by the Mercury in 2019 to spotlight outstanding women in sports, business and philanthropy who are making an impact in their community.
Mercury social media channels will amplify gun violence statistics in Arizona to increase awareness among fans unable to attend Friday night’s game.
Before the game, the Mercury will host a reception for volunteers from the Arizona chapter of Moms Demand Action to highlight their efforts. Leaders from Moms Demand Action, Everytown, and Mercury President Vince Kozar will be available for interviews before the game. For media interested in covering or securing interview opportunities, please contact Mychael Ramirez (mramirez@suns.com) to schedule.