Sarah Brady is a prominent name associated with gun control advocacy in the United States. Born Sarah Jane Kemp in New London, Connecticut on February 6, 1942, she later married James Brady, who served as White House Press Secretary under President Ronald Reagan. The couple rose to national prominence due to their involvement in a tragic event that forever changed their lives.
In 1981, James Brady was shot in the head during an assassination attempt on President Reagan. Sustaining severe injuries that left him with permanent physical disabilities, this incident fueled the Brady's determination to advocate for stricter gun control legislation. As a result, Sarah Brady became a leading figure in the movement.
The Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, formerly known as Handgun Control, Inc., was founded in 1974. Sarah Brady assumed an active role in the organization, eventually becoming chairperson in 1989. She tirelessly worked towards the implementation of stricter gun control laws in the United States, particularly promoting background checks and waiting periods for gun purchases.
Sarah Brady's efforts played a significant role in the passage of the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act in 1993. Named in honor of her husband, this law mandated federal background checks on firearms purchasers and established a waiting period. It marked a major milestone in gun control legislation and remains a critical component of firearm regulations in the United States.
Sarah Brady's commitment to reducing gun violence and advocating for sensible gun control measures cemented her place as one of the most influential voices in the movement. Her legacy continues to inspire activists and policymakers in their ongoing efforts to address the complex issue of gun violence in America.
