How many more shootings like those in Newtown, Oregon, Aurora, Wisconsin, Tucson, at Virginia Tech or Columbine will we have to endure before we, as a nation, take action and bring about change? Many people spout out, “Guns don’t kill people. People kill people.” Wake up, America! People with guns kill people. What purpose is there for a citizen to own assault weapons such as those used by law enforcement and the military except to kill as many people as possible in a short period of time? The Second Amendment was ratified in 1791, and specified the need for a “well-regulated militia.” When was the last time you were called on to get out your gun and become a member of the militia here in America? When was the last time someone had to get gunpowder for their musket to protect their family and land from a war party?
For our country’s leaders: It’s time to stand up to special interest groups instead of being held hostage by them. It’s time to have the courage and wisdom to enact much-needed laws regarding tighter gun control and bans on assault weapons. The citizens expect you to take action to stop these senseless killings.
Twenty six- and seven-year-old children murdered. Six adult heroes murdered. The time for action is now!
Janet Duncan, Kansas City, MO