Defend Nation Against Gun Massacres

Target: Jack Reed, Chair of U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee

Goal: Approve funding for gun reform measures such as red flag laws and background checks.

From a Chicago McDonald’s to a Buffalo market to a southern California church, mass shootings are marching toward a record-shattering year. Instead of actually coming up with actions to address this crisis, politicians are once again shrugging their shoulders, offering thoughts and prayers, and hiding behind the Second Amendment. These mounting massacres are a matter of national defense, and it is time they be treated as such.

The shootings in Buffalo and southern California, and arguably all mass shootings, are apparent acts of domestic terrorism. This type of terrorism, often enshrouded in hatred for minority groups, is one of the biggest national security threats according to numerous intelligence sources. Increasingly, guns capable of delivering tremendous and deadly devastation within minutes are the weapons of choice for these terrorists. The Defense Authorization Act is designed to provide funding for the nation’s defense, and these expenditures should finally include common-sense gun reform efforts.

Previously, advocates have proposed robust funding for a number of initiatives, from expanded background checks that close dangerous loopholes to the implementation of red flag laws. The latter, which focuses on keeping weapons out of the hands of individuals with mental illness who pose a threat to society, could have been instrumental in the Buffalo tragedy. The suspect in this case had a history of mental health concerns reported by his school.

Sign the petition below to demand the nation’s leaders start investing in ending these critical threats to public safety.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear Senator Reed,

Americans should have the right to learn, go shopping, attend church, enjoy a meal, or spend time outside with family and friends without worrying about lying in a pool of blood by day’s end. Every day, public gathering places are bearing a horrific resemblance to war zones. Perhaps the most horrifying part of this reality is that it has become commonplace. American flags barely have the chance to fly high before they are lowered once again in remembrance of the latest mass shooting victims.

Our society, and our leadership, cannot become numb to the tragedies that blur together with such ease. This committee is supposed to be committed to the nation’s defense. Act like it. Include funding for integral state efforts like red flag laws and robust background checks. Dedicate some of this nation’s vast resources to defeating one of its most insidious threats.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo Credit: Andre Carroflower