The gun control debate is still occurring and it seems that Legislators are simply bickering, as opposed to getting anything done. A good example of this is when Democrats had a Sit-In for more than 24 hours on the House floor with no vote by Republicans on gun control. It seems that there is a misunderstanding on the issue of gun control, and Republicans are trying to protect individual rights, while Democrats are trying to ensure safety. It is crucial for legislators to begin viewing the issue from both perspectives so that something can be implemented to ensure citizen’s rights and safety.
Democrats: Humanitarian Perspective
According to an article by NBCNews.com, Rep. John Lewis stated, “‘Time and time again we ask for compassion…Our people are sick and tired of a do nothing congress…”‘ It seems that Democrats are approaching gun control from a humanitarian perspective. While trying to push for this vote, “…lawmakers held photos of victims of gun violence,” as an aesthetic strategy to show Republicans that this is issue is about safety and not individual rights. In the same article, Nancy Pelosi further illustrates the humanitarian perspective when she said, “‘We have little time to save lives. What more important thing does any of us have to do than stay here and pass a law to save laws?” This clearly shows that Democratic Legislators are taking a humanitarian approach to gun control.
Republicans: Individual Rights
In terms of Republicans, they believe “…that American citizens have the right to own, carry, and use guns.” Also it is stated, “Republicans generally believe that changes in sociological norms have no bearing on the rights and freedoms defined by the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.” It is clear that Republicans are viewing this issue as an individual right that should not be altered in any way.
Overall, it seems that gun control is a black-and-white issue to Republicans; however, Democrats believe it is a gray area. Democrats believe that as society changes, so should the laws to protect the safety of Americans; while Republicans think gun control is a freedom that should not be altered in anyway. Both parties need to be open to both stances, so that laws can be implemented for the better of everyone.
I think that it is a stretch to say that Republicans see it as black and white while Democrats see it as a gray area. There is always indecisiveness on both sides in terms of what is your major priority of carrying a gun. I do also think that it is also a massive generalization to say that the Democrats see it as a humanitarian issue. Really, both sides see it as a humanitarian issue (aka for the welfare of society)…it just differs in the way that one (either Republican or Democrat) SEE the “welfare of society”. There are certainly separate ways in which this welfare is achieved when it comes to guns. I think that it is also interesting that both of these sides are really striving to appeal to emotional triggers of this supposed national safety discussion through rhetorical strategies.