Spooner Elementary School in Wisconsin has been hosting a gun show for a local rifle and pistol club for decades. But in the aftermath of the Newtown shootings, some community members have rightly raised objections, and now the school board will vote on the issue.
The club’s owner told Think Progress that its members have as much sympathy for the families of the Newtown victims as anyone else, but they don’t associate the tragedy with their show. It is only about convenience, not “shock value,” he said.
But others say they are very shocked to learn the club would even consider another show at the school. Another point of contention is that the club will exploit the “gun show loophole” to profit from selling guns on grounds where state law otherwise prohibits them
Connecting guns with schools in any way sends the wrong message. Tell the gun club that schools aren’t the place for gun shows.
We, the undersigned, join those in Spooner, Wisconsin who object to a gun show at their elementary school.
In addition to recent and past concerns over bringing guns to an area in which they are otherwise prohibited, some have expressed worries over the ability to buy guns at shows without the usual background checks.
And although the club's owner says members don't associate the Sandy Hook tragedy with their show, it's difficult for others not to. Furthermore, others commenting on the issue say there are other community venues the club can use that are just as convenient.
Connecting guns with schools in any way send the wrong message, and gun clubs should not be exempt from laws prohibiting guns on school property.
We request that the club hold its show elsewhere - schools aren't the place for gun shows.
Thanks for your time.
