Anti-Gun Violence Rallies to Pop Up Tonight

Following the Newtown, CT, elementary school tragedy just over one month ago, stories concerning firearms have become daily fare — New York State has tightened gun legislation, residents have assailed an online pistol permit map and, Thursday, two weapons were swiped from a Rockland home.

And despite Gov. Andrew Cuomo and his politicos being the first statesmen to alter law following the Dec. 14 shooting, some residents are calling for more. The civic action group MoveOn.org has organized a slew of grassroots gathering Thursday night, asking citizens to address gun violence in their regions.

"The tragedy in Newtown, CT was the last straw," the group pens on their website. "We've got to keep the call for change loud and visible to move our leaders from mere words to meaningful action. That will take consistent, creative, sustained action from us to end gun violence in our communities."

Two ad hoc meetings will be held in Westchester—one in White Plains, and one in Mount Vernon. The White Plains meet-up is slated for 7 p.m. at the Community Unitarian Church; 33 people have already signed on.

"Join us in a moment of silence followed by group discussions of what White Plains residents can do to end gun violence," one organizer writes. "Possibilities to consider: hand gun collection events, local gun control legislation, a web-site allowing public declarations of being a non-gun home."

Several other gathering are scheduled for the same time in New York City, Connecticut and beyond. To find a meeting near you, click here.