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I’ll Stop Being ‘Political’ When I Can Stop Worrying About My Kids’ Safety
On December 14, 2012, 20 young lives were tragically cut short at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Since then, gun violence has claimed countless more lives, with 338 mass shootings reported in just 2017. After Sandy Hook, many of us thought that the heartbreaking loss of 20 innocent children would finally lead to some meaningful gun control measures. Sadly, we were mistaken.
As a mother, I’m fed up. I’m exhausted from reading about innocent lives being taken in an instant, followed by the same old cycle of thoughts, prayers, and empty promises for change that never materializes. Every few months, we find ourselves back at square one, vowing to push for change, only to see nothing happen.
I’m weary of being a mom to two beautiful kids who should be enjoying a carefree childhood in what’s often touted as “the greatest country on earth.” Instead, I feel a constant undercurrent of fear every time they board the school bus because today could be the day that someone unstable walks into their school with a gun.
I’m tired of hearing my little ones talk about the active shooter drills that have become a routine part of their education. They know that in order to survive a potential attack, they must huddle silently in a dark classroom, praying for safety. They understand not to touch any firearm if they come across one and to follow their teacher’s instructions to remain still so they can come home to us.
This is what our children are being prepared for—war. Is this truly the patriotic nation we claim to love? A place where our youngest citizens can’t even learn basic math without having to practice hiding from a gunman? How can this be acceptable to those who cling to their firearms while touting Second Amendment rights?
Let’s not forget that we also have a right to live. Our laws that enable individuals to stockpile guns, while innocent children and adults are regularly murdered, directly contradict this fundamental right. What is so great about a society full of people living in fear? A society where parents can’t assure their children that they’ll return home safely from school? Where going to a movie or a concert means wondering if they’ll become part of the next tragic headline?
I dare anyone to tell me that politics shouldn’t enter into discussions about motherhood. Explain why we should ignore the heartless politicians who are in the pockets of gun lobbies, ensuring that dangerous individuals can easily acquire firearms. Why should we brush this aside and only talk about strollers and nap schedules when our children’s lives hang in the balance?
Because believe me, I’d prefer discussing parenting tips over hearing my kids recount how they’ve practiced hiding in their classroom bathroom. It’s almost comical to them that the smallest child has to balance on the toilet while the teacher crouches by the door, reminding everyone to stay hushed so they can be safe. Why should we accept this as our new normal? Why don’t our kids deserve better? I honestly can’t understand it, especially with fresh tears in my eyes as I think of yet another national tragedy.
Call me dramatic, but a mother shopping for snacks shouldn’t have to plot her escape route the moment she steps inside the store. She shouldn’t have to silently panic while her children are at school. This isn’t the motherhood experience we envisioned; we never thought we’d be raising our kids in a war zone.
It’s time to prioritize our children over firearms. We’re exhausted—how can we not be? If the murder of 20 innocent children didn’t motivate our country to prioritize kids over guns, what will?
If you want to get involved, check out Moms Demand Action For Gun Sense In America.