Dear Editor,
Women across the state should be outraged by E.J. Montini's February 24 contention that laws making it illegal to carry a firearm in a city park magically makes them safe.
First of all I am not part of a militia nor am I a "militant gun owner". I am a 32 year old, 5'2" female who wants her right to protect herself from criminals to be restored.
What about all the criminals who do not carry guns? How many crimes have been committed with knives, or fists or just pure strength? If someone wanted to attack me, I would not have much of a chance against them. Granted, he would not go unscathed, but he would be able to overpower me. By taking away my right, no my responsibility to defend myself, you are inviting a criminal to attack me. However, if he suspects I am carrying a gun, chances are he will leave me alone.
Criminals, by definition, care less about the law. Law-abiding citizens, like myself, are different. We obey the law. The criminals look at parks as a mini mart for victims. They know no one is armed, so they can have their pick of targets.
Until the city governments can assign a bodyguard to every man, woman and child in this state, I am responsible for my safety. I cannot depend on an understaffed and overworked system to protect me.
Montini would better serve his readers by reprinting the long list of children who fell victim to violent crime -- in our state's parks -- despite the gun ban.
As for his comments about "the politicians who preach less beg government and more local control", he uses the state governments decision to close strip clubs and adult entertainment establishments. Well, from what I remember, I have a right to carry a gun that is granted to me by the United States and Arizona Constitutions. The preemption bill's goal is to give my right to protect myself back to me.
Maybe Montini should reprint that law. That way his readers can hold it up the next time they're caught in the crossfire of a driveby or if someone comes after them with a knife. After all, according to him, it can surely protect those law abiding citizens who stand behind it.
Sincerely,
Nannette Weaver
Glendale, AZ