The recent mass shooting in Georgia is a reminder to us that America refuses to take gun violence seriously. The US differs from other countries is the mass quantity of guns our citizens hold. Unfortunately, many of these guns are not well stored or adequately secured. When a 14-year-old boy can access a lethal military grade weapon we have a problem.
Our prayers and thoughts may make us feel better, but they are not a solution. One highly supported solution is available and that is the use of red flag laws. These laws aim to reduce the risk of gun violence, including suicides and mass shootings, by intervening before a potential tragedy occurs. They are designed to prevent individuals who are considered a threat to themselves or others from accessing firearms.
Unfortunately, these incidents are not new. In fact, they occur so often that they have become routine. The right seems satisfied with the policy of preventing gun violence by offering active shooter drills to children and gun training to teachers and administrators. Unfortunately, these approaches target the active shooter rather than addressing the conditions that foster gun violence.
Unfortunately, until we have legislative leaders willing to address the root causes of gun violence, we will continue to experience these tragic events. So, it seems that the only solution will be found at the ballot box, and it starts on Nov. 5th, 2024. Vote for civility.
