Candice King Instagram – Thank you to Tennesseans United for Gun Safety for inviting me to speak yesterday. It was powerful to see so many people show up from all over the state, united in our pleas for common sense gun reform. It was an honor to stand beside my fellow speakers…a Pastor, a child, a mother who lost her son to gun violence, a student, a survivor, and a Pediatric Doctor… all coming together for common sense gun reform. I began my speech by saying that the first time I’d ever been to any state Capitol Building was on March 30th, 2023. I often talk to people who want to get involved but don’t know how. Or people who are nervous because they don’t want to sound silly by asking questions. Who don’t know where to park by the Capitol Building. Or even what to do when you get there. A year ago I was one of those people. Luckily there are incredible community members who will have your back. Local organizations who will invite you in. Capitol security guards who will point you in the right direction if you’re lost. Fellow concerned citizens who will help you navigate the Capitol website so you can read up on, and understand, the bills that are being voted on. Sitting in the gallery of my state Capitol and watching my local elected officials vote on bills that would directly affect my community and my family has forever changed me. We all get involved when we can and how we can. Just remember your vote matters. Your voice matters. So use it. If you live here in Tennessee and want to know how you can participate and learn, follow @riseshinetn . ( 📸 Photo 1: @raydipietro 📸 Photo 2-7 & 9: @malloryholcomb ) Tennessee State Capitol