Today, Thursday, May 15, CT Against Gun Violence (CAGV) convened its annual “Be the Hope” Luncheon Benefit at the Inn at Longshore in Westport. This waterfront gathering united advocates, community leaders, and survivors to advance CAGV’s mission of ending gun violence in Connecticut through education, advocacy, and legislative action. The event was co-chaired by Jennifer Epstein, Nicole Heath, Nancy Lefkowitz, Melissa Kane, Allison Stockel, and Barb Patrick—each a dedicated advocate for gun violence prevention.
In 2024, Connecticut recorded a statewide decrease in violent crime—including in its five largest cities—underscoring the impact of the state’s stringent gun‐safety laws. Yet, as Executive Director Earl Bloodworth reminded attendees, “Behind every statistic is a name, a family.” Bloodworth also sounded the alarm on recent Department of Public Health funding cuts that threaten prevention programs.
The luncheon honored Jonathan Perloe, CAGV’s longtime Director of Communications, celebrating his years of tireless advocacy. Attendees then welcomed Earl Bloodworth formally as CAGV’s new Executive Director, marking a renewed leadership chapter.
Voices of Hope
Matthew Holden was six when he survived the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School on December 14, 2012. Now a Political Science major at George Washington University and an intern for Rep. Jahana Hayes, Holden used his story to call for kindness: “If you remember anything from today, remember to be kind.” He credited his mother—who also survived the attack—for raising him and his sister “to fight for what we believe in.”
After a luncheon of salmon and chopped salad, CAGV board member and event co-chair Allison Stockel galvanized the room to bid on auction items and commit new resources, ensuring CAGV can sustain its Youth Council, grassroots outreach, and policy campaigns.
Today’s gathering made one truth clear: Connecticut is making headway in reducing gun violence, but the work is far from over. Through “Be the Hope,” CAGV harnessed survivor testimony, legislative insight, and community solidarity into a powerful, unwavering call for continued action.