After a Tough 4th of july

Good afternoon. After a tough 4th of July for those of us who are concerned about the prevalence and increasing frequency of gun violence in our nation, I wanted to share an article from the New York Times. Here is a summary:
One of the main barriers to substantive expansion of gun regulation, both at the federal and local levels, is the strength and durability of American gun culture. Francisco Cantú, a former Border Patrol agent, grew up immersed in this world, and writes in a guest essay for Times Opinion that it’s built on “our most durable myth, the exceptionalist notion that a man with a gun is a force powerful enough to defend against any danger.”

There is reason for hope in the federal legislation recently passed by Congress – the first in decades. But the July 4th tragedy in Highland Park, Illinois, reveals that the legislation is not enough. How can Congress be convinced?

In addition to rallies, letters and financial support for organizations that focus on ending gun violence, we can work to see that our local governmental entities pass ordinances that help protect the public from gun violence incidents. The local Moms Demand Action group, with whom we collaborate, is working, along with other groups such as Colorado Ceasefire toward such actions. At the June 7 Fort Collins City Council meeting, a dozen or so members of the Moms group and other citizens, encouraged the Council to seriously consider and adopt ordinances similar to those recently passed in Boulder and several other municipalities in Boulder County.  During the next couple of months, individuals in the movements to prevent gun violence will approach Larimer County Commissioners to consider options at the county level. We are fortunate to live in Colorado where some sensible measures are already in place. 

What can YOU do?  Here are a few ways:

• Be alert to emails and postings about events and meetings related to preventing gun violence.
  
• Be prepared to attend governmental meetings where these issues will be discussed.  Even if you do not testify or advocate, your presence sends a strong message!
  
• Continue to write letters to government bodies who make decisions that affect the safety of our community. 
  
• Educate yourself about the candidates’ positions on preventing gun violence in the upcoming election.  Then VOTE. 
  

Over the past six weeks, gun violence had devastated an elementary school of innocent children, a grocery store of racial minority shoppers, a medical center of staff and patients, and a parade of families watching a community parade.  Texas, New York, Illinois, Oklahoma.  According to the Washington Post, over 300 mass shootings (4 or more individuals shot) have occurred so far in 2022.

As members of Plymouth, we have the potential to help bring about change.  Let’s sustain the efforts. 

Anne Thompson,
Ending Gun Violence Ministry Team