As the country comes together to grieve the loss of life in Newtown, a national conversation has begun about how to better protect and serve our communities in the face of catastrophe. The questions of how to respond to these tragedies face us all: government at all levels, educators, mental health professionals, the media, and individual Americans.
Continuing PBS’ participation in this vital discussion, After Newtown, an hour-long special from WNET brings together news and public affairs teams from across PBS in a joint effort to analyze and illuminate the issues surrounding these events.
This program, anchored by Gwen Ifill, addresses such issues as access to guns and the politics of gun laws; mental illness in young adults; the science of detecting violent impulses; and how communities react to unspeakable tragedy.
At PBS.org/afternewtown viewers can also learn more about the issues discussed and are also encouraged to join the national conversation by using the Twitter hashtag #afternewtown.
After Newtown
![]() |
Gun PolicyOver the last few years, dozens of states have significantly rolled back gun restrictions. John Larson traveled to Virginia to see what’s known as the “open carry” movement first-hand. And, Larson talks with Larry Pratt, the head of Gun Owners of America about life after Newtown. |
![]() |
Greenfield on the lessons of tragedyNeed to Know’s Jeff Greenfield notes that politicizing tragic events may actually be a good thing. |
![]() |
Slideshow: The World ReactsHeadlines from around the world reflect on the tragedy and on guns and American culture. |
After Newtown is a production of CNG for WNET in New York, in association with WGBH, WETA, and PBS NewsHour. Executive Producer, Stephen Segaller.