To the Editor:
Faiths United to Prevent Gun Violence, a national interfaith organization, will celebrate a Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath March 13-16 which will include prayer events in every state.
Gun violence in our country causes 30,000 deaths each year. Many factors contribute to this tragedy, but the most direct action we can take is to enact common sensible gun legislation.
Requiring background checks and an assault weapons ban are things that Republicans and Democrats agree on. These are simple ways to prevent many who have criminal intentions from getting weapons they would use to harm other people. And these laws would not infringe upon responsible gun owners such as hunters and sports enthusiasts.
Nine out of 10 Americans support background checks for gun sales (Source: www.demandaction.org). Unfortunately, gun manufacturers spend big money to convince responsible gun owners that their guns would be taken away. According to opensecrets.org, a nonpartisan watchdog group, the National Rifle Association (NRA) and its affiliates spent over $3.4 million lobbying the federal government in 2013. Undoubtedly, their sole objective is to ensure that there is an unlimited market for firearms in our country.
Many of our elected officials remain committed to sensible gun violence prevention. In the six states where responsible gun legislation exists, there has been a significant decrease in gun violence. We must support their efforts and move their colleagues to join them in passing laws that will save lives.
On Thursday, March 20, at 6:30 p.m., the Center for Active Nonviolence and Peacemaking will host a free screening of the Academy Award-winning documentary “Bowling for Columbine,” which examines gun violence in our county. The event will take place at The Canticle – home of the Sisters of St. Francis – 841 13th Ave. N., Clinton. For more information, visit www.ClintonFranciscans.com or call (563) 242-7611.
Laura Anderson, Sr. Nancy Miller and Lori Freudenberg
Co-Coordinators of the Center for Active Nonviolence and Peacemaking
Clinton
