Over the years in the United States we have witnessed a massive increase of gun violence, specifically in school environments, than ever before. According to the Center for Homeland Defense and Security, between 1970-2022, 22.6% of school shootings actually happened in the parking lots and 9.8% of them happened in classrooms. There is a large variety of places where they occur though, including bathrooms and hallways. The number of school shootings has risen a shocking amount. In an article from the Sandy Hook Promise Organization it was revealed that there were more school shootings in the year 2022 than in any other year since 1999. Students across schools have admitted that the number of schools targeted is frightening and an issue that makes many feel hopeless.
The first time I heard about a school shooting case I remember being so incredibly confused. I didn’t understand how it was even possible for someone to have entered a school with a weapon, or how they could have the capacity for such an act of violence. The reality is less clear, and far more sad.
Many school shooters are experiencing hard situations in their homes or relationships. They can also be victims of mental health illnesses or psychological issues. Whatever the reason, it doesn’t change or excuse the pain that they cause so many kids, teachers, faculty, and families.
Measures need to be taken, in any way that works, to stop this epidemic sweeping through our nation. When I asked another student at Ludlowe, who wishes to remain anonymous, if they felt safe at Fairfield Ludlowe High School they responded, “I feel safe here, but my heart hurts knowing other students, at other schools, don’t feel the same.” The message is simple: we have to make a change in our country to alleviate the fears of students, faculty and families, and to prevent what so many have gone through from spreading to more schools.
Connecticut has some of the strongest gun legislation out of any state. After the Sandy Hook School shooting in 2012, the laws were refined and since then CT has been a leader among states cracking down on gun laws. Connecticut legislation says universal background checks, gun licenses, and safe storage requirements are all part of how Connecticut attempts to decrease gun violence incidents. However, in many places across the country the National Rifle Association (NRA) provides the funding for lots of politicians, such as members of Congress. This connection makes it more difficult for federal laws regarding gun control to be passed. Therefore, it is important to find a way to move away from this connection, or work with the NRA to find a solution that works for everyone.
I can not say what the right course of action is, or how we will stop gun violence, because it is more complex than a simple solution; however, there is no denying the reality of the situation anymore. The more we address this epidemic the better chance we have of finding a solution and changing the lives of every person involved in the United States education system.
