Blog by Sr. Judy Morris, OP[/caption]
We often hear the definition of insanity - "doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different outcome." As we deal with yet another massacre in the United States, that line keeps coming to me. There are common sense, responsible solutions to the ongoing social disease of gun violence. Fifty people lost their lives and fifty-three people were seriously injured by a man in Orlando with an AR-15 assault weapon. This was not a hunting weapon or a target shooting weapon, but one used to kill many people in a matter of seconds. This weapon had a high capacity magazine that enables the firing of many rounds in a short time.
Dominican Sisters of Peace and Associates approved a corporate stance on February 3, 2014, calling for a ban on the sale of assault weapons and high capacity magazines, and to support universal background checks. This is a living document, which calls us to add our voices to the many who demand change in irrational gun laws. Our senators and representatives need to hear from us now. They hear from the National Rifle Association with millions of dollars in political contributions, demanding that they do their bidding by backing any legislation that enables them to maximize profit through the sale of weapons with no restrictions. A certain segment of congress refuses to consider changes in gun laws, citing second amendment rights. The second amendment has nothing to do with military assault weapons.
We continue to hear the same response from some senators and representatives—"You are in my thoughts and prayers." Families want action, not words, not the scripted, hollow words that fall flat when the need is for positive action that makes a difference in the lives of vulnerable Americans. Parent after parent say that words must be backed up by actions.
As the November election approaches, I am committed to vote only for a senator, representative, or presidential candidate who will stand up against the gun lobby and support responsible gun safety legislation that protects the people of the United States. We can be part of the solution.
The dead on the floor of an Orlando nightclub, the children of Sandy Hook, those who lost their lives in a Colorado movie theater call out to us for action. 