The gun violence epidemic in our nation is deeply troubling, and it’s something that should alarm every one of us. Despite years of urging Congress to take meaningful action to protect families and children from preventable gun violence, we remain in a waiting game. Mass shootings continue to plague our communities, and change seems stagnant.
However, while we await legislative progress, there are immediate actions we can take as individuals to make firearms less accessible. Here are two practical strategies that don’t need congressional approval and can be implemented starting today:
1. Shift the Marketplace
Let’s draw inspiration from the environmental health movement and rally consumers to reduce the influence of guns in our society. We should encourage organizations like Everytown for Gun Safety to initiate a campaign aimed at retailers who sell firearms. We must call on major retailers such as Walmart, Big 5, Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops, and Dick’s Sporting Goods to cease their gun sales. It’s crucial to push these corporations to prioritize the safety of our children over profits, becoming part of the solution instead of the problem.
We can influence the market by recognizing retailers who choose to remove guns from their products as responsible and forward-thinking. For instance, Target made the decision to stop selling tobacco in 1996, and CVS followed suit in 2014, citing the conflict with their mission to promote better health. Let’s amplify our voices and pressure the market so that retailers who eliminate guns are celebrated for their socially responsible choices.
2. Engage Locally
It’s time to mobilize the rational voices in our communities and engage with local policymakers. Let’s work towards banning the promotion, sale, and purchase of firearms within our cities. Our goal should be to make guns less glamorous, less accessible, and less prevalent. Collaborate with your school boards, local businesses, legislators, and even students to create local initiatives for change.
If municipalities can legislate against single-use plastic bags and styrofoam, we certainly have the power to regulate firearms. Just as we have successfully restricted tobacco advertising, we must push for similar regulations for firearms. We should also encourage local media outlets to halt the promotion and advertising of guns. This concept isn’t new; many newspapers stopped accepting tobacco advertisements years ago.
As a parent of two young children, I find myself worrying daily about their safety at school. How have we allowed such fears to become a standard part of parenting? Tragically, I have experienced loss myself; my infant son passed away in my arms in 2012. I can’t remain silent while countless families suffer due to preventable gun violence.
We have the power to create change. Let’s raise our voices, influence the market, and get involved in our neighborhoods. Boycott retailers that promote guns. Participate in marches. Contribute to Everytown for Gun Safety. If you own firearms, ensure they’re kept away from those who may misuse them and advocate for sensible gun laws. The time for action is now; we’ve waited long enough.
In summary, our nation’s gun violence crisis requires immediate action. We can make a difference by shifting consumer behavior and engaging at the local level to reduce the accessibility of firearms. Let’s unite and advocate for safer communities for our children.
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