Gun Violence: The American Way?

"Our thoughts and prayers are not enough.” President Barack Obama said, addressing the nation in response to yet another deadly mass shooting. "It’s not enough. It does not capture the heartache and grief and anger that we should feel.  And it does nothing to prevent this carnage from being inflicted someplace else in America -- next week, or a couple of months from now.” I find myself deeply saddened by the recent events in Roseburg, Oregon, this brutal act of domestic terrorism that has left more than 10 people dead, several more wounded and a country reeling once again. My heart is heavy knowing that some many lives have been tragically devastated by violence, so many have been killed, maimed and scarred mentally, physically by the uninhibited use of firearms. As another community begins the grueling process of grieving, we are again painfully reminded of the price of inaction.

The gun debate may be one the most divisive topics currently in the United States, however, I believe it is a discussion that must continue to be had. I write this post not as a liberal, a Democrat or even as a social justice minded person but simply as a concerned citizen of the land I call my home. It is important for each of us, no matter our views, be willing to examine and talk about this epidemic sweeping our nation. Every single day lives are lost due to gun related violence, accidents and suicide—a major public safety crisis. It is a problem that cannot be solved by doing nothing, an issue that cannot be ignored. America has never been a country that backs down from a challenge because it’s too complex, we do not simply give up and say “stuff happens”.

One of the most frustrating aspects of this gun dilemma is the involvement of the gun lobby, organizations like the National Rifle Association. From a political perspective, gun violence remains unsolved not because of the strength of any one argument but due to the influence of money. It is no secret that the NRA spends millions of dollars each year swaying politicians in order to halt any policy change and even the collection of data. When paid special interest and deliberate misinformation supersede the process of democracy something is inherently wrong, the will of the people is not being carried out. On the federal level, it has become extremely difficult to translate public opinion into legislative change when it comes to firearms. 

Another troubling trend is the general lack understanding and constructive discussion among the mainstream populace. The conversation surrounding gun violence is often dominated by political rhetoric and false claims which create a seemingly impossible division. It is easy to become discouraged and angry when dealing with someone of the opposing view point, I certainly understand that, but it is crucial that we keep the dialogue going with open minds. The truth is, many people on both sides agree with specific elements of gun restriction but develop an all-or-none mentality when it comes to the phrase “Gun Control”. Personally, I believe in logical gun regulations while still supporting responsible ownership; much like being pro-speed limit and pro-seat belt does not make one anti-car.

All in all, I strongly feel that something must change in our country, it is imperative that we curb this plague of horrific mass shootings and gun related deaths. The tragic violence at UCC and the numerous shootings in recent memory cannot be forgotten, they must not be something that just happens from time to time. Every time something like this happens I find myself feeling a little more unsafe, fearful for the people I love. With my youngest brother attending college next Fall, I cannot help but be filled with a bit of apprehension. These attacks were not in a war-zone or a failed state of government but in communities just like our own, places of learning, of worship and enjoyment. We have to ask ourselves as a nation do we value a vague interpretation of the 2nd Amendment more than the very right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.