Many people rightly have concern about the four dissenting votes in this case.  Rightly so.  We seem to have four Justices at the highest level of the Judicial Branch of the U.S. government that do not interpret the Second Amendment to mean that individuals have the  right to own  firearms to protect and defend.

My first thought on hearing of this close decision was this:

“What if the ruling had gone the other way?”

What would the reaction of the pro-gun rights crowd be?   Of  course it would be peaceful, though the media might warn   of cases of violence.  I do  not believe that this ruling would have been “The straw that broke the camel’s back.”

I  am  an  optimist, and I believe that a ruling  in favor of the City of Chicago’s   gun  ban would  have strengthened the pro-gun rights movement.  The election of President Obama was a large awakening for the movement.  Without any direct threat  or promise, many feared a change in the White House would greatly affect their Second Amendment rights.  These fears were well founded by facts and previous actions of  the President and his men.

This was a close victory for those that believe in the great American right to keep and bear arms.  Let us not take this victory for granted and  fail to see the other challenges in the future.  Many elements  of society still want to make it illegal   for law-abiding citizens to own firearms with which to defend themselves.  They will work any other avenues available.

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The peaceful Washington demonstration did not included guns, as the rules are very strict in the District of Columbia.  It did feature many good citizens that care deeply about their rights and freedoms.  It did receive lots of positive media coverage, and some that was not so flattering.

Youtube user NoGuff posted a great video demonstrating the flavor of the Washington event for those of us that could not be there.  Thanks to NoGuff for his work.

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H.R.2296 and S. 941 work to legislate reform at the ATF. Titled “To reform the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, modernize firearms laws and regulations, protect the community from criminals, and for other purposes”

This legislation aims to roll back unnecessary restrictions and correct errors in federal firearms laws and regulations. The bill would revise the system of administrative penalties for licensed dealers, manufacturers and importers of firearms.  It would prevent the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATFE) from punishing licensees for insignificant technical violations as a means of making unconstitutional encroachment on citizens’ Second Amendment rights.

This legislation creates a more effective method of “gun control” by providing appropriate resources to ensure that individuals who commit crimes with guns are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, as opposed to seeking opportunities to penalize clerical errors – such as use of abbreviations, or filing records in the wrong order – as is currently practiced by the BATFE.

H.R. 1074 and S556 are commonly known as the Firearms Interstate Commerce Reform Act.  This legislation will remove some older restrictions on the interstate sale of firearms.

The bill summary states:

“Firearms Interstate Commerce Reform Act – Amends the federal criminal code to: (1) allow licensed firearms importers, manufacturers, dealers, or collectors (licensees) to sell or deliver any firearm (currently, rifles or shotguns) to a resident of a state other than the state in which the licensee is located or temporarily located if the licensee meets with the purchaser to complete the sale or delivery and the transaction complies with the laws of the state in which the transfer is conducted and the purchaser’s state of residence; and (2) eliminate the requirement that a licensee must conduct business at a gun show only in the state that is specified on the licensee’s license.

Provides that nothing in this Act shall be construed to prohibit the sale or other disposition of a firearm or ammunition: (1) between licensed firearms dealers at any location in any state; or (2) by a licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer to an unlicensed person at a temporary location in any state.”

H.R. 442 is the Veterans’ Heritage Firearms Act of 2009, which  intends “To provide an amnesty period during which veterans and their family members can register certain firearms in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, and for other purposes.”

These are several pieces of good legislation in the U.S. Congress that need to be supported by those of us who want to protect our Second Amendment rights.  This legislation can be further researched for details, sponsors, and ongoing progress by visiting the Library of Congress tracking tool called Thomas.  It is very easy to find at www.thomas.gov It is a very good place to browse legislation and search for specifics.

After we are informed, we need to write our Representative and Senators.  Thank those who are on the record as a co-sponsor and encourage those who are opposed to vote for it.

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From the Second Amendment March website:

“The mission of the Second Amendment March is to galvanize the courage and resolve of Americans; to petition our elected officials against establishing anti-gun legislation; and to remind America that the Second Amendment is necessary to maintain our right to self defense.

It is the one right that protects all others.

We will accomplish our mission by a peaceful march in Washington DC, the United States Capitol, supported by satellite marches to State Capitols and smaller cities all across America.”

Most gun loving Americans are not used to being a part of organized protests, but this is one that needs to happen to preserve our Constitutional right to keep and bear arms.  The first amendment is the Freedom of Speech and peaceful assembly.  The second one is the right to keep and bear arms.  It can be offered that the second amendment protects the first by giving the population the means to defend democracy from all that try to steal it.  From forces outside and inside the country.

There are many things that can be done to support the Second Amendment March.  Participation is the most obvious, but basic awareness is a good place where we all can start.  Financial contributions are also a big part of this expensive event.  Volunteers donating their time and talent are also welcome.  Visit their site for more information.

www.SecondAmendmentMarch.com

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