To the Editor:

I am the co-chair of the Junior Newtown Action Alliance based out of Newtown High School. I attended the Legislative Council meeting on December 2, 2020, where the three town gun ordinances were debated; the first one would ban open carry on public property; the second one would ban open carry at public demonstrations; and the third one would ban open carry of long guns.

I was deeply disappointed by the actions and mannerism in how council members behaved. It is concerning that these are the people who represent our town and are the ones in charge of deciding on important matters such as the ones discussed at this meeting. Not only was the Newtown Action Alliance accused of using the timing of the anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy to “move along their agenda,” they were also accused of labeling town members as white supremacists. This topic of discussion started the process two years ago, and was supposed to be brought up months ago, but with the election approaching, it would not have been deemed in the best interest. If by voicing concerns of being intimidated at public demonstrations by carrying gun owners and expressing a pattern across the United States somehow makes a person feel like they are being called a white supremacist for simply owning a gun, they should rethink their definition of what a white supremacist is.

It was also stated by one council member that the Sandy Hook tragedy happened because it was a gun-free zone, therefore implying guns should be carried in schools by teachers. Myself and many other students are appalled that a person from Newtown has the audacity to say something like this. I can also say that if teachers did have guns in school, many students (including myself) would not feel comfortable going to school.

Much of this discussion was about intimidation tactics, and one side disregarding at least three different people (not all from the NAA) saying they have been intimidated at protests with guns. I respect people’s right to bear arms by the second amendment, but it should not impede on the first amendment either. It was shown throughout this meeting that facts were blatantly ignored, even when stated multiple times.

What I have learned from being a part of this meeting is that legislative decisions are based more on how much it would cost than if it would make situations safer. It was demonstrated that money is valued more than the safety of people, and that is not something that should be happening.

Sincerely,

Riley Burns

Arlyn Ridge Road, Newtown December 11, 2020