Guns Down America Marks One Year with Hudson Munoz as Executive Director
October 23, 2024
WASHINGTON — Today marks one year since Hudson Munoz was appointed executive director of Guns Down America. Over the past year, Hudson has demonstrated exceptional leadership and an unwavering commitment to the organization’s mission of reducing gun violence and advocating for safer communities.
Hudson, a veteran researcher and public relations expert, brought a wealth of experience to Guns Down America. His previous work at Amalgamated Bank, where he led efforts to establish a merchant category code for gun and ammunition stores, showcased his dedication to addressing the intersection of finance and the firearm industry. This expertise has been invaluable in advancing Guns Down America’s goal to hold businesses accountable for their role in the gun violence epidemic and put a price tag on Second Amendment exceptionalism.
Just two days into his role, Maine, along with the rest of the country, was torn apart by the horrific Lewiston mass shooting that stole the lives of 18 people and left 13 others wounded. This tragedy underscored the dire need for national leadership in tackling America’s toxic gun culture and the business of firearm violence.
This year was marked by numerous successes for the gun violence prevention movement, including Wayne LaPierre's resignation as head of the NRA, the first anniversary of the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, and the Supreme Court upholding a ban on domestic abusers owning guns.
Reflecting on his first year, Hudson Munoz said, “I am honored to lead Guns Down America during such a pivotal time. Our progress is a testament to the dedication of our team and the unwavering support of our community. Together, we will continue to build a future with fewer guns—one in which every American can feel safe from the threat of gun violence. I will continue to work tirelessly to hold corporations accountable to the public they serve—not the gun lobby trying to buy them out.”
Under Hudson’s leadership, Guns Down America has achieved significant milestones, including:
- Advocacy and Policy Influence: Hudson has been instrumental in pushing for legislative changes, including the introduction of a national gun store merchant category code bill and the passage of legislation in Colorado (where he testified) as well as New York and Colorado (two of the nation's largest and most influential economies.)
- Research-Backed Approaches: Hudson has led through a data-first approach that shed light on the marketing tactics of the firearm industry in promoting toxic gun culture and role of credit card companies in fueling gun violence.
- Strategic Partnerships: Hudson has forged key partnerships with other organizations and stakeholders, amplifying our collective impact in the fight against gun violence.
- New Conversations: With the launch of The Hollow Point, a new journal aimed at unearthing the best-kept secrets of the gun industry, Hudson has started a narrative around the through lines the gun industry doesn't want us to talk about.
Hudson’s vision and leadership will undoubtedly continue to drive Guns Down America’s mission forward, creating lasting change and saving lives. Looking ahead, the organization remains committed to fighting for a safer, gun-free America by pushing back against the gun industry's dangerous influence.