On Monday evening, tragedy struck the Michigan State University campus in East Lansing, Michigan. A gunman opened fire, resulting in three fatalities and five injuries; an incident that has shocked and saddened the nation. The gunman is yet to be apprehended, but it has been confirmed that he remains at large.
This event marks the fifth anniversary of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting which occurred in Parkland, Florida on February 14th, 2018. This massacre was one of the deadliest school shootings at the time with 17 deaths and 17 injuries reported. Since then, there have been a staggering 67 mass shootings across America with an average rate of one per day. This unacceptably high number of tragedies speaks to an issue much larger than any one particular incident- America’s gun culture.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer commented on this tragedy saying it is a uniquely American problem that far too many people are scanning rooms for exits upon entering them. It is heartbreaking that such precautions are necessary for those attending educational institutions or public events in the United States. According to a study conducted by Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund, American students now attend schools where shootings occur more than once a week on average – a statistic that is deplorable and wholly preventable through more strict gun control laws nationwide.
MSU freshman Jack Dell was among those who experienced immense fear as news of this shooting quickly spread across campus. He barricaded himself inside his room and closet out of fear for his own safety- it should not be necessary for students to live under such duress while pursuing their education in what should feel like a safe environment rather than one of potential danger.
It is essential to recognize when incidents like these occur and express our collective grief over them as well as seek reform regarding gun regulation so future generations do not have to live their lives in fear of another attack occurring on school campuses or other places where large numbers of people congregate. If we are serious about preventing the further senseless loss of life due to gun violence, it is imperative we confront our nation’s gun culture head-on through legislation ensuring stronger background checks on those looking to purchase firearms as well as working towards eliminating automatic weapons from our streets entirely; both actions would greatly contribute towards decreasing deadly attacks and allowing individuals greater peace of mind while living their daily lives without constant worry affecting them every waking moment.
Take time today to remember all those affected by this most recent attack- let us strive together towards creating safer environments free from hate and terror where all citizens can feel secure enough to pursue their dreams unhindered by fear or anxiety regarding imminent danger occurring around them.
