I was appalled at the recent so-called town hall meetings and the gun packing protesters. Living in Washington, DC, I’m used to protests, demonstators and public events. Everyone protests here from anti-abortion, anti-gay rights to IMF and World Bank protests. Since 9-11, many restrictions have been placed on those attending public events. Gone are the days when you are free to roam and bring whatever your heart desires to an event. There is always a restricted list of forbidden items. I understand the need for these restrictions.
Violence is real in this country. I’m not speaking about the street violence in urban cities. There’s violence in suburban America where many of the town hall meeting raucus took place. I’m talking about killing an abortion doctor in Wichita, Kansas in May, 2009 because his views differed from the killer. In Maryville, Illinois, a gunman entred a church in March and killed the Pastor. Then there’s the recent gym killing of women during an aerobics class in suburban Pittsubrgh.
What is scary is the attitude of the demonstrators attending these protests. They cannot be called town hall meetings anymore. Anger, rage, temper and guns are never a good mix. It’s like always drinking and driving. Something bad is bound to happen. So why not risk the ire of the NRA and prohibit guns, knives and any other dangerous weapons from any political events with the President. Is that too much to ask to protect our President?
We cannot rely on the National Rifle Association to police its members. That won’t happen. They’re broadening their so-called “right” to bear arms. Perhaps President Obama and his advisors do not want to upset the NRA. The thinking here is wrong, if that’s the case.
Protecting our President should be our paramount concern. If gun restrictions limit the gun toters rights for several hours, where is the harm?They can always pack after the President leaves.
Art Waidmann says
Good comments. Can you imagine if Bush were still president and people came with guns…In that day, people were removed from gatherings for wearing the T-shirt which questioned Bush’s leadership.
The NRA has been firing up its membership since civil rights legislation was passed. I have a young relative who has guns and talks about being prepared for urban warfare….guess who “Urban” indicates?
It’s time to stop setting up potential disasters, and clear areas where the president is speaking of people carrying guns, at least remove their weapons until the end of the rally.
Does public policy allow guns on aircraft, other than those of the pilots? I have seen enough violence, which begets more violence, usually fueled by hate or territorial control, especiall in Chicago and working with youth in gangs. On one occasion of a funeral of a young man killed by rival gang members, the mother of the youth in the casket, stood at the casket and pleaded with his friends and fellow gang members to stop the “retaliation”, it only brings on more killing.
When will this nation ever learn?
Keneth Yiu says
I Will have to come back again when my course load lets up – even so I am taking your RSS feed so I can read your site offline. Thanks.