By Kayla DeMicco
Opinion Editor
“The effects of gun violence extend far beyond these casualties—gun violence shapes the lives of millions of Americans who witness it, know someone who was shot, or live in fear of the next shooting.” – Everytown For Gun Safety
Unfortunately, as Americans, we have seen way too many mass shootings in the news. According to an organization against gun violence, Everytown For Gun Safety, 58 percent of American adults or someone they care for have experienced gun violence in their lifetime and about three million American children witness gun violence every year. The worst part about all the gun violence in America is that lawmakers and politicians are not doing anything to fix the situation fast enough.
Recently, one country had to face and understand what Americans go through too often.
On March 15 in Christchurch, New Zealand, two mosques, within about three miles of each other, were attacked which claimed almost 100 victims. The attacks are being deemed massacres and terrorists attacks.
Christchurch memorial for the victims and family of the shootings.
What doesn’t surprise me about the Australian shooter is that he has been described as a “right-wing extremist terrorist” by officials as he was taken into custody. Three other people have been taken into custody that were connected to the shooting.
According to NBC News, the main perpetrator, who has been identified by Australian news sources, had posted a “74-page manifesto titled ‘The Great Replacement’ […] online beforehand and matched several details about the suspect and the attack.”
On the topic of being on the far-right, the perpetrator made references to being a white supremacist and Donald Trump. He also spoke of his anti-immigration and anti-Muslim views.
In the manifesto, he says, “Were/are you a supporter of Donald Trump? As a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose? Sure. As a policy maker and leader? Dear god no.”
“The Fake News Media is working overtime to blame me for the horrible attack in New Zealand. They will have to work very hard to prove that one. So Ridiculous!” Trump tweeted a few days after the shooting.
It doesn’t surprise me that Trump would say something like that. With all his openly racist comments throughout the years, people (mainly white supremacists) have began to think it is okay to be openly racist and commit hate crimes.
What’s astounding about New Zealand is how fast all assault rifles were completely banned in the aftermath. This decision was made by the prime minister, Jacinda Ardern, who said in a press conference, “On March 15 our history changed forever. Now our laws will too. We are announcing action today on behalf of all New Zealanders to strengthen our gun laws and make our country a safer place.”
Seventy two hours after the shooting is all it took for New Zealand’s cabinet to agree that. America went through hundreds of shootings last year where over one thousand people have suffered and our gun control isn’t as well regulated as other countries.
The most gun control America has had was when Apple replaced the actual gun emoji with a toy water gun.
Multiple communities all around the world came together to show support and their condolences for the Muslim community. When the shooting in a Pittsburgh synagogue occurred last October, the Muslim community came through for the Jewish community. The Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh is returning the favor since they know the devastating effects of a shooting.
“We stand in solidarity with the Muslim community in Christchurch, in Pittsburgh, and around the world,” the Jewish Federation said.
