Culture is defined as “the ways of life including arts, beliefs and institutions that are passed down from generation to generation.”
In 2022 there were 639 mass shooting incidents (defined as four or more people shot in a single incident, excluding the shooter). Guns are the leading cause of death of children. In 2022 more than 6,000 children were injured or killed in shootings.
On Jan. 13 near Newport News, Va., a six-year-old shot a teacher with a handgun. According to Police Chief Steve Drew: “This was not an accidental shooting.”
How did a six-year-old have access to a loaded gun?
Who taught this child how to fire a gun?
Who groomed this first grader to believe it was okay to shoot a teacher they didn’t like?
There are at least 10 gun shops within 20 miles of Newport News, Virginia. There are 14 gun shops within 20 miles of Pine Bush, N.Y., close to where I live.
Why so many?
Supply and demand?
Why the demand?
Is it due to the ever present hate and fear rhetoric?
Why has it become an honor to own so many weapons that homes literally have arsenals?
Is America’s gun fetish fueled by a massive propaganda campaign conducted by certain organizations for profit and power?
Who is promoting extreme beliefs and institutions in regards to guns?
They are influencing our children and grandchildren. Responsible leaders in a civilized culture actively work to curb what and who is contributing to the unwarranted deaths and injuries of its citizens.
Why isn’t this happening in America?
Denise Aumick
Wallkill