On Wednesday, Sept. 4, we, as a nation, saw the devastation and tragedy that gun violence brings to our communities. Another state, another school, another day, but the same result. The death of four more people and the injury of many more continues to raise questions over how we move forward when addressing gun violence.
In 2023 alone, there were 38 events that were classified as school shootings in the U.S. During this time frame, 21 people were killed, and 42 injured.
Any tentative solution that could be reached has been paralyzed by all sides in Washington. Democrats propose further bans on the sale of firearms and an increase in state and federally issued red flag laws. Republicans propose increased security of schools through armed guards and new technological measures, such as metal detectors and safety systems.
In theory, either side of the coin seems to sound like a meaningful solution to an immediate problem. The truth is a bit more sinister. The government, because of its partisan divide, thrives on not finding a solution to the issue. The left thrives on deep investments from the gun safety lobby, who funds major races for Democrats in Congress. Inversely, the right thrives on countering this by continually receiving funds through organizations like the NRA to push against stricter gun laws. For both sides, a solution to gun violence would mean an end to big dollar donors and super PACs who hold this issue near and dear.
In all respects, our government has failed us. Our local representatives, state legislators, and federal elected officials have all failed at fulfilling their constitutional duties of keeping Americans safe. Even when looking at states with stricter gun laws, such as New York, gun violence is still existent and vibrant in our cities. Every week, we hear countless stories of shootings and violent altercations among our communities. On the same day of the shooting in Georgia, two teens were shot on the city’s Lower West Side. Gun violence is inescapable.
I would advocate challenging the political status quo and asking a few essential questions on the topic of gun violence. First, what is motivating small community-based shootings? Second, what investments can we make in community programs to combat violence? Lastly, how can we reform current gun laws at a national level to curb gun violence and still protect constitutional rights? These questions are essential to stopping the problem at its core.
In today’s world, it seems simple, and sometimes unhelpful, to ask questions instead of formulating solutions ourselves to issues. Indeed, we all feel socially responsible to be the ones to solve global issues. In reality, if we the people don’t express our opinions on gun violence and press our government, as we have seen in the past, nothing will ever get done.
A few clear actions are being agreed to by both sides to stop this. The clearest answer seems to be the passage of a more advanced red flag law, such as the Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act by the U.S. Senate. In fact, 61% of Americans agree that the U.S. needs stricter gun laws. At the same time, states should form sub-committees in their legislatures committed to curbing gun violence at its core through investments in mental health and other educational initiatives.
While the condolences, thoughts, and prayers from Republicans were much appreciated in the wake of the shooting in Georgia, it is not enough. The party that championed abolition, as well as the freedom and security of a new nation, must change its current position when combating gun violence. Their inaction has not only divided their party and ostracized key voters, but has divided a nation reeling with senseless tragedy. Similarly with Democrats, their blanket statements about banning guns is action, not a practical solution. We need them to stop making false promises to the American people. As we have seen in Barrow County, Georgia, the consequences of doing nothing are often deadly and devastating.
