When we have more than twice as many guns as people in this country, simple availability may become a factor. According to the CDC, in 2022, there were 48,295 firearm-related deaths in the U.S. That’s more than the number of people killed in automobiles. Obviously, it is a major problem, but statistics don’t motivate people to take action. Why do we require annual registration of cars and drivers and insurance, but don’t require them for firearms that are more dangerous?

Firearm violence is divided into three categories: homicides, suicides, and mass shootings. The first and last are what make the news, but the second is the more common form resulting in death. School shootings result in great trauma and emotional consequences regardless of the number of deaths.

What are some solutions:

• How do we limit access to guns?
• How do we restrict the use of guns?
• How do we make communities safer?
• How do we more safely store guns?

For example, the decade in which assault weapons were banned, the reduction in violence from firearms was significant. The assumption that only criminals use firearms to result in violence or death is wrong. Domestic violence, arguments that turn violent, and police who use firearms without training or restrictions, also result in deaths. Firearms manufacturers blame people with mental health issues as the sole problem.

Limiting the sale and distribution of firearms often is seen as a method to control access and to restrict the use of firearms. That also is seen as a restriction on the legal use of firearms. Some communities buy back firearms to limit their number.

Community education and training programs are helpful not only in reducing firearm violence but also showing options in resolving conflicts. Community involvement in observing and reporting on criminal behaviors and individuals with mental health issues also may prevent violence.

The automobile manufacturers for decades fought any requirements of any safety features, and now they promote these features. Firearm manufacturers lobby against any restriction on the sale or use of firearms. They are the only group that is not liable for death or injury from the use of their products.

We also need to consider the cultural value in the use of firearms in the media’s portrayal of the rugged Individual as the Ideal of manhood. At the same time as we honor the rule of law, we romanticize the days before law and order in the wild west. Some also try to misinterpret the 2nd Amendment.

Every community needs to find solutions that work for them, but we also need the national political courage to more fully and honestly confront the issue.

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