Gun violence is becoming increasingly common in the U.S. The right to bear arms in the U.S. was granted in December of 1971. Since then, violence in America has reached an all time high. The increase in firearm production and the right to bear arms are solely responsible for a majority of the gun violence in the U.S. 

The production rate of guns has increased over the past two decades. In 2000, 3.9 million firearms were manufactured. However, this is miniscule compared to in 2020, when over 11.3 million firearms were produced. In the U.S., over 400 million guns are in the possession of American citizens. To put this into perspective, this is around 122 guns per 93 citizens (excluding minors). It is alarming how common and normalized owning a lethal weapon has become. 

Many argue that it is the illegally imported guns that contribute to the majority of gun violence. However, it is not the illegal manufacturing of firearms that heavily contributes to gun violence. It is the legally purchased guns, found in many American households, that are responsible for a majority of the gun violence in the U.S.

With guns becoming more accessible to the public, guns have fallen into the wrong hands. A majority of states do not require citizens to have a permit to own guns. It is foolish how Americans are required to pass driving tests and have at least 50 hours of driving lessons to receive a driver’s license. While, to possess an object that has the capability of killing or gravely harming multiple people, you only need to be 18 or older. In what world is it sensible for a citizen to need more qualifications to own a vehicle, than a device that was created to harm people? 

As a result, over 40,000 Americans die from gun violence each year. It is not some mystery as to why gun violence is so frequent in the U.S. Evidently, it is the lack of control and limitations on the possession of firearms. To keep our communities safe, if you or someone in your household owns a firearm, make sure that the firearm is securely stored, and that it is in the possession of someone you would trust with your own life. Now, let’s be the generation to put a stop to gun violence. 

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