Frequent comments about gun violence and fact-based information to consider
Words have a lot of power. It is important we understand how to develop conversations safely and effectively. Gun violence prevention is a hot topic, and it’s easy for emotions to run high. This guide provides fact-based information to consider when you hear common statements about gun violence.
| When you hear… | Consider the following |
|---|---|
| Guns stop crime. | Guns are involved in many crimes. |
| Guns are why America is still free. | There are many countries where people are free but they have limited access to guns. |
| If you’re concerned about gun safety, take a safety class. | Responsible gun owners handle their gun in a safer manner. |
| Having a gun at home helps protect my family. | Having a gun at home increases the likelihood someone will be killed by a gun in the home. |
| Background checks and waiting periods infringe on my right to own a gun. | Waiting periods and background checks reduce gun deaths, especially suicide deaths. |
| Guns are an inner-city problem. | 72% of gun deaths in Wisconsin are suicide and they occur throughout the state. |
| The second amendment gives me the right to own an assault weapon. | Assault weapons were developed for military use. |
| Guns don’t kill people, people kill people. | Guns make it easier to kill someone. |
| Keeping guns away from people with mental illness will eliminate most gun deaths. | While people should not have access to a gun when they are in a time of crisis, most gun deaths are not perpetrated by people with mental illness. |