Difficult conversations about gun violence can be overwhelming. Topics like mass shootings, gun laws, and violence prevention can be sensitive. They may be politically and emotionally charged.
Discussions often come with differences of opinion, misunderstandings, or tension. They are also essential for finding common ground, understanding others, and creating change.
One-on-one conversations are powerful tools for connection and advocacy. This guide will help you talk about hard topics, like gun violence and keeping kids safe, with care and confidence. You can use it when talking with family, friends, or people in your community.
What Makes a Conversation Difficult?
Some common challenges in difficult conversations include:
- Differences of opinion: Disagreeing on solutions can feel divisive.
- Misunderstandings or assumptions: Miscommunication often leads to conflict.
- Tone and language: How words are spoken can increase or ease tension.
- Context and setting: A conversation’s location can influence comfort levels.
When talking about tough topics like gun violence, it is important to approach the conversation with care and focus on shared values.
Lead with Shared Goals: Keeping Kids Safe
In discussions about preventing gun violence, it’s essential to start with the shared goal of keeping children safe. This common ground resonates with most people, regardless of political beliefs. Sandy Hook Promise’s Chief Advocacy Officer, Lauren Levin, highlights this approach:
“Every single parent wants their kid to be safe at home,” says Levin. “When we don’t approach these conversations just about a firearm, or just about blame, or starting from a place of politics, we’re talking about how we can keep our kids safe today.” Levin says asking the right questions is crucial. For example, we must ensure secure storage of firearms. “Just like I’m locking up the liquor cabinet or checking for (food) allergies, I’m also making sure I’m asking about firearms and that things are stored safely.”
Starting from this place of shared values builds trust. It sets the stage for meaningful dialogue. By focusing on gun safety, we can unite people through conversations, not divide them.
A Framework for Having Difficult Conversations
Use this four-step framework to navigate hard conversations and create productive dialogue:
1. Acknowledge. Show that you’ve heard the other person’s concerns. For example:
“I understand where you’re coming from.”
“Thank you for sharing your thoughts.”
2. Pivot. Gently steer the conversation toward your message. Avoid unproductive debates. Try:
“That’s a great perspective—here’s how I see it…”
“Let me share what we’ve learned about this issue…”
3. Answer. Share your message in a way that reflects your goals. Stay clear and focused:
“Sandy Hook Promise supports solutions that protect kids while respecting the Second Amendment.”
4. Re-acknowledge. End on a note of respect and mutual understanding:
“I appreciate this conversation, and I’m glad we could share perspectives.”
This formula—Acknowledge, Pivot, Answer, Re-acknowledge—is simple, adaptable, and effective.
Your Elevator Speech for Gun Violence Prevention
An elevator speech is a short, impactful statement. It should explain who you are, why gun violence prevention matters to you, and what you are doing about it.
A well-crafted elevator speech is key to having difficult conversations about gun violence. It delivers a clearer, more effective message. It’s your chance to share why this cause matters to you and inspire action.
Here’s how to structure your elevator speech:
1. Introduce yourself: Share a little about who you are.
Example: “I’m a parent and an advocate for youth safety through Sandy Hook Promise.”
2. State your “why”: Explain what drives you to address gun violence prevention.
Example: “I believe every child deserves to feel safe at school and in their community, and I want to be part of the solution.”
3. Connect to the bigger picture: Show how your values align with broader efforts.
Example: “That’s why I support programs that help students and adults to recognize the signs of potential violence and take action to prevent it.”
This approach focuses on shared goals to protect children and foster understanding. It seeks solutions to address gun violence that unite people.
Your elevator speech doesn’t have to be perfect—just authentic. Practicing can help you feel ready for important conversations with friends, family, or co-workers.
For more guidance, check out the Action Guide for Elevator Speeches. It’s what our Promise Leader volunteers use.
Conversation Starters to Build Common Ground
The hardest part of difficult conversations about gun violence is breaking the ice. Some people may want to avoid conflict and be hesitant to share their points of view. Use these conversation starters to set a positive tone:
“I’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic—it’s so important to me.”
“We both care about keeping kids safe. Can we talk about how to make that happen?”
“This issue means a lot to me, and I’d like to share why.”
Your Role in Driving Change
Ready to take another step? Become a part of Sandy Hook Promise’s broader movement for change! Inspire safer schools, homes, and communities—one conversation at a time. Learn more about our mission and volunteer opportunities.
