Following the shootings of the last year, much controversy has arisen over the need for gun control. Several opposing groups have risen up calling for “strengthened federal regulations,” including a total ban on firearms. Political powers from all aspects of the city, state and federal government have introduced various proposals to limit the right to gun ownership. On the other hand, other groups that support the 2nd Amendment have opposed such proposals; claim that these regulations constituted a “violation of their rights”. Now, I am not a proponent of everyone carrying or owning a gun, nor am I opposed to having smart, fact-based regulations. I think we all want to protect our rights, our property and our lives. I also want to limit easy access to weapons to criminals and those deemed mentally unstable. Just Facts reports; “As of 2009, the United States has a population of 307 million people. Based on production data from firearms manufacturers, there are approximately 300 million firearms owned by civilians. Of these firearms, approximately 100 million are handguns.” A US Department of Justice study based on crime data from 1974-1985 found: • 42% of Americans will be the victim of a completed violent crime (assault, robbery, rape) in their lifetime. • 83% of Americans will be the victim of an attempted or completed violent crime. • 52% of Americans will be the victim of an attempted or completed violent crime more than once in their lifetime. Emphasizes Just Facts; “In a 1997 survey of more than 18,000 inmates, the study found that among those serving sentences for violent crimes, 30 percent of state offenders and 35 percent of federal offenders carried a firearm once committed the crime. A 1982 survey of male criminals held in 11 state prisons throughout the United States... middle of paper... There are not enough firearms in America today for every household to contain one. The article also forgot to mention that the murder rate (per capita) is extremely low. With these facts, we could draw the conclusion as the amount of gun ownership increases; the murder rate will continue to decline. While I wouldn't go so far as to make that statement, I'm simply pointing out that the article used fear in an attempt to persuade your beliefs, not facts. I ask each of you who are tired of this kind of editorials or speeches, write to your local newspaper or MP and fight for your rights. Let's not let such far-left activists convince our politicians to limit our rights and privileges as Americans. 2013. http://justfacts.com/guncontrol.asp