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The mass shooting at the Super Bowl victory parade is appalling and tragic, but, in my view, it is bad faith to say it is shocking or unexpected. After all, it was a public event in America, the statistical home field of the rotting, terminal sickness known as the gun violence epidemic.
As we learn the gruesome details of another mass shooting, I reflect on the carnage in Lewiston last October. We cannot give up in the face of gun violence. Personally, I’m inspired by the smart, kindhearted leadership of the grassroots gun safety organization Moms Demand Action. I respect that they use the word “demand” in their name. As any parent knows, merely wishing for a change in dangerous behavior is never enough. I’m deeply grateful there is a local chapter of Moms Demand Action right here in Maine.
In the spirit of that organization, I believe Mainers need to tell politicians in Augusta that weak, watered-down safety proposals do not meet the moment in our ongoing gun violence crisis. Please call, email and write letters to Gov. Janet Mills and state representatives. In my view, the courage it takes to use one’s voice will boost their political courage to pass meaningful gun safety laws.
Aaron Bergeron
Portland
