3 Reasons to Support the Second Amendment

 

Assumptions. We all make them, but they’re generally only partially correct, if at all. People generally assume that I support the Second Amendment and constitutional carry simply because I want to defend myself and my family. Although very important, that is only one reason I support the Second Amendment.

The Second Amendment goes far beyond packing a .40 caliber in my purse or on my hip. There are three main reasons I support the Second Amendment: to hunt, to protect myself and my family, and to defend my country against tyranny.

Hunting

Although I don’t hunt myself, I have many friends and family members that do. Many find it to be an enjoyable way to provide for their families. This way of life is defended when the Second Amendment says, “The right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.”

Personal Defense

Guns are not only used for provision. They are also used in defense – something that I think people from both rural and urban areas can understand. I want to protect my loved ones if there is a violent threat whether it is a criminal when I’m walking to my car, or a snake under my child’s trampoline.

Defense of Liberty

The Second Amendment states, “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.” This right is not only to defend against criminals or animals, but for “the security of a free state.”  This means that we the people do have the constitutional right to use violent force against anyone threatening the liberty of the state, including the government. This may indeed be the greatest reason to own a firearm.

Thomas Jefferson said, “What country can preserve its liberties, if its rulers are not warned from time to time, that this people preserve the spirit of resistance? Let them take arms.” We the people have neglected our duty to keep our government in check. Now we’re paying the consequences. If the government succeeds in restricting and ultimately abolishing our right to bear arms, then all real authority is given to them. We are at the mercy of tyranny.

According to Gun Owners of America’s Erich Pratt, only ten states allow constitutional carry as of April 7, with Mississippi to possibly be the eleventh. The movement to reclaim our right to bear arms is growing, but there’s still a long way to go. We are only about a fifth of the way to truly reclaiming the Second Amendment for ourselves. It is our duty as citizens to uphold the constitution and keep our government in check when it dares defy it. I urge you now to use your first amendment right to “petition the government.” Call or write your government officials. Demand the protection of your constitutional and God-given rights.

Cassy Ford is a contributor for Students at Liberty for Gun Rights. Follow her on Twitter @gungirl96