Our Gun Violence Prevention Initiative

One year ago, we announced the launch of the Ad Council’s Gun Violence Prevention Initiative—an expansion of our long-time commitment to address this health crisis. This multi-faceted effort was designed to support the life-saving work already happening across this space. We knew then what remains true today: no one organization or individual can address this crisis alone.

SXSW is always an energizing experience—a melting pot of creativity, technology and collaboration where some of the most meaningful conversations happen in the most unexpected ways. This year was no different. Over three whirlwind days in Austin, I had the opportunity to speak on two thought-provoking panels, engage in insightful discussions with industry leaders, and immerse myself in groundbreaking activations that showcased the future of gaming, AI and immersive storytelling.

As I reflect on my experience at CES, I know that this year is one I’ll never forget.The groundbreaking technology I encountered and the inspiring conversations I had were all taking place while the devastating wildfires swept through Los Angeles, in my home state of California. At the time I’m writing this, the fires remain uncontained, destroying over 57,000 structures and forcing the evacuation of more than 153,000 residents. Needless to say, this cast a somber undertone over CES–many attendees, including several of my colleagues, were personally impacted and had to fly out to support their families.