GAGV

Amplifying Advocacy and Advancing Solutions: Designing a Vision for GAGV’s Global Work

Global Action on Gun Violence (GAGV) is a U.S.-based organization dedicated to addressing the gun violence epidemic through international and domestic litigation, advocacy for safer gun practices, and leveraging human rights frameworks. Its goals are to reduce crime-related gun violence in the United States while preventing its proliferation globally. As a new and international non-profit, GAGV required an image to present to the world, and needed to differentiate from the United Nations Office for Disarmament and the International Action Network on Small Arms (IANSA).

The GAGV engaged Boyle Design to develop strategy, visual identity, and a web presence to position the GAGV as the international leader in the fight against gun violence.

From Vision to Global Strategy: Advancing the Mission Through Design

We began by conducting in-depth research to understand the unique challenges faced by GAGV in distinguishing itself within the landscape of international organizations addressing gun violence. The insights gained informed a strategic framework that defined GAGV’s positioning, voice, and key messages.

Central to the visual identity is a logo that signals authority, action, and the reduction of crime-related gun violence. Because graphic depictions of gun violence can alienate or overwhelm viewers, we created a program with bold colors and oversized typography. Modern visuals created an accessible entry point for a broader audience and emotional neutrality for broader engagement, encouraging audiences to focus on solutions.

Empowerment Through Design

Strong typography and a single vibrant color project a sense of urgency, strength, and action. This approach shifts the narrative to empowerment, aligning with the organization’s mission to drive bold, innovative, and litigious change.

Clean and modern visuals also resonate with international stakeholders and policymakers who prefer professional, non-provocative communication. This positioned GAGV as a serious, solutions-oriented entity. The minimalist and typographic approach ensures a distinctive and memorable identity, reinforcing GAGV’s focus on systemic change and lasting brand recognition.

Color became a pivotal element of the design strategy. GAGV’s work is not anti-gun but focused on addressing crime-related gun violence and advocating for safer practices through systemic change.

Chosen for its ability to convey urgency without being aggressive, a vibrant yellow was selected as the central color in the visual identity. As a universal signal for awareness, yellow aligns with the cautionary tone often associated with safety warnings and public alerts, making it an ideal choice to capture attention and signify the gravity of GAGV’s mission. It also reflects the need for immediate action while fostering a sense of hope and forward movement.

Advocacy to Action: GAGV’s Voice at the Mexico City Peace Summit

GAGV participated in the 2023 Peace Summit in Mexico City, hosted by Global Exchange. This influential gathering brought together over 300 attendees from 80+ organizations, united in advancing peace and human rights. GAGV showcased its expertise in combating the global gun violence epidemic through innovative legal strategies, advocacy, and human rights frameworks. GAGV also highlighted its collaborative approach to addressing gun violence, fostering cross-border solutions, and promoting unity and action.

The event strengthened GAGV’s relationships with international partners and solidified its position as a leader in the global movement against gun violence.

Driving Change Through Design: Measurable Outcomes of a Global Vision

A distinct identity was established that sets the organization apart from other global initiatives, enhancing its credibility and visibility on the world stage. This newfound clarity and presence have led to partnerships with prominent human rights and disarmament groups. Within six months of launching the new digital platform, GAGV experienced a 500% increase in digital engagement, further amplifying its reach and influence. The organization is now positioned as a thought leader in the global conversation on gun violence, driving forward its mission with renewed purpose and authority.

We worked with Boyle Design to design the logo and website for our nonprofit, when we only had the most general idea of what image we wanted to present to the world. It took Dennis’ genius to show us what we wanted. The logo he developed for us was evocative, powerful, and engaging, and his artistry was critical to forming the best possible first impression when we launched. He was a pleasure to work with and I could not recommend Dennis more highly. I would work with him again in a heartbeat.

Jonathan Lowy
President & Founder