Sarah Brady: The Time for Debating Is Over -- We Need Action
Sarah Brady
Chair, The Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence
Posted: 12/16/2012 9:17 pm
Jim and I want to send our very deepest sympathy to the families in Newtown. Over the years, we've met too many wonderful people because they've been through the worst experience: losing a loved one to gun violence. Along the way, we've also met children who slept in bathtubs to avoid gunfire in their neighborhoods. This has to stop.
Like many, I'm frustrated, sick and angry. We've had enough debates about guns. We need action.
First, let me tell everyone who fears the National Rifle Association (NRA): that group is not omnipotent. I know that group can be defeated. It's not easy. It takes courage, determination -- and leadership. And, leadership has been sadly lacking. Now is the time for President Obama to use his bully pulpit and executive authority. Mayor Bloomberg is right, "This should be his number one agenda. It's also time for Congressional leaders, starting with Majority Leader Harry Reid and Speaker John Boehner, to move beyond the control of the NRA. No more excuses. Let it be noted, I'm referring to the NRA lobby and leaders in Washington, not to the many members across the country who are in favor of common sense solutions to gun violence.
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NRA leaders are hunkered down, fully expecting the American people to move on when the media furor dies down. I implore you not to let that happen this time. In this great nation of ours, six- and seven-year-olds shouldn't be shot multiple times at school. Teachers shouldn't die trying to save them. Frankly, no one should be killed with firearms in the U.S. No one.
More: From the HuffingtonPost
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