The tragedy at Sandy Hook opened the eyes of lawmakers and many other Americans to the issues surrounding gun violence. The incident caused uproar and induced a national conversation that was long overdue.

The American people blame the easy access to guns and feel that there should be stricter gun laws. The National Rifle Association blames violent video games and the media. Their idea of a perfect solution is to arm teachers and other school personnel.

I don’t know what’s more obnoxious: The idea of having a fully loaded gun next to the arts and crafts cabinet or the NRA’s recent statement that Congress will not pass a ban on assault weapons. Even former Republican presidential candidate and Arizona Senator John McCain doesn’t believe Congress will pass a ban. NRA President David Keene added that there is no evidence that shows restricting assault weapons would solve the problem.

Let’s hope for the sake of the American public that Congress does pass a ban.

There is plenty of evidence that these types of weapons are causing problems, and Congress needs to look at the facts. Unfortunately, the lives lost at Sandy Hook serve as reminders and good evidence of why citizen possession of highly powered weapons should be unlawful. However, in case lawmakers have forgotten in the little time that has passed there are other examples which they should feel free to look to for reference. 

Recall first the shooting massacre in Aurora, Colo., in July. Patrons enjoying a midnight showing of “The Dark Knight Rises” were subject to real-life terror when a gunman opened fire in the theater. Twelve people lost their lives and 58 people were injured.  Mass shootings continued as another gunman opened fire at a religious temple in Wisconsin in August. Seven people lost their lives and others were wounded, including the gunman. There have also been other mass school shootings in this country’s history including those at Columbine High School and Virginia Tech.

Gun violence even continues to plague us past the tragedy of Sandy Hook, especially in major cities. This past weekend in Chicago, a familiar backdrop for gun violence, 14 people were either fatally shot or wounded. Among those killed include 14-year-old Rey Dorantes who was gunned down while sitting on his front porch. The young teen was just a few days away from celebrating his 15th birthday. 

The list goes on and on. Similar scenes play out across the country, and though they may not garner the attention of national news, they are still devastating. It’s important that Congress pass a weapons ban simply for the reason that there are many shootings we do not hear about. 

Many argue that a law banning assault and military weapons would somehow interfere with our second amendment rights. The Constitution states that “A well-regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.” While this law provides citizens with the right to carry a gun, I think it’s more important to consider the context and terms surrounding the law. Yes, you have the right to carry a weapon, but when those weapons begin to affect the greater good of society, then something must be done.

The aim of an assault weapons ban is not to infringe on your second amendment rights but only to protect society overall. No one needs an assault rifle or magazine while strolling around anyway. Military weapons should be limited to those in the military. 

Sure you have the right to carry a gun, but when people are frequently being gunned down in public places and their own homes, it’s time to question our current laws and explore the idea that the bearing of certain arms may be the cause of our problems.

Lawmakers and the NRA should also derive a better argument than using the second amendment. Times change, and this right was given at a time when you could go into public places and not expect to be blown away. Our forefathers would have a different take on the second amendment if they were here to see our current troubles.

I’m sure the fallen victims of Newtown, Conn., Aurora, Colo. and Oak Creek, Wis. would have a different interpretation of the amendment as well.

Ta’les is a senior in Media. She can be reached at [email protected].