This month we celebrate America’s 240th Independence Day, the date of the signing and ratification of America’s Declaration of Independence from the British Empire. This beautiful document, drafted by the “Committee of Five” (John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert Livingston), espoused our natural rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness free from molestation by others (especially our own government).
America has changed as a country in that 240 years and certainly not without the great costs to life, liberty, and property. We have morphed from the agrarian and trading port colony under control of a tiny island on the other side of the Atlantic to one of the freest nations on the planet. Now, again in the wake of several tragedies here on our own soil perpetrated against our own fellow citizens in San Bernardino and Orlando we find ourselves in another fight in the “gun debate”.
Once again, the very right to self-defense is under threat. Every Presidential election comes with the rhetoric that this is the most important election. Unfortunately for our industry, the shooting sports as a whole, and the right to defend ourselves inside and outside our homes, this election may be it. The chief concerns of the result in November are:
- The decision of who gets to nominate the replacement for Justice Scalia (and possibly Justice Thomas’ seat with the rumors of an impending retirement circulating).
- The threat of a repeal of the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act. The PLCAA is the law protecting Gun Manufacturers from being sued because of the improper/illegal use of our products. Currently one candidate for President is vowing to work to repeal this.
It is imperative that we not only exercise our own ability to vote, but encourage others to do so. Additionally, getting involved at various levels of advocacy are a must as well. Make sure to renew your NRA membership, donate to the National Shooting Sports Foundation PAC, but most importantly: TAKE SOMEONE SHOOTING. If you know someone who sits on the fence with regard to gun rights don’t wait for a mass-shooting and the subsequent anti-gun blog posts in the wake of the tragedy to make up their mind for them. Help normalize guns. Teach them the nomenclature. Show them safe handling, carrying, and storage. Be inclusive of EVERYONE who could benefit from the 2nd Amendment because ultimately that is EVERYONE.
Have a restful and safe July 4th and as always thank you for your business, loyalty, and support.
Kenny Barlow
Sales & Marketing Manager.