AR-15 style rifles modified to be legal in California are on sale at an arms fair in Costa Mesa on June 5, 2021. (Patrick T. Fallon / AFP / Getty Images)
In the editor: Don’t blame the founders for our inability to curb armed violence. (“How many times has Biden said, ‘Should we act’ on guns? What takes so long? ‘” Opinion, May 25)
If the words of the Second Amendment – “A well-regulated militia, which is necessary for the security of a free state” – were respected, a person who wanted a weapon would have to enlist in a local militia first. They would swear never to use their weapon except in defense of their home or community. Then the enlistment should follow the chain of command and regularly seems to demonstrate its competence in the maintenance and use of its weapon.
Because our Supreme Court has not upheld the 2nd Amendment, we live in a country that is neither safe nor free.
Ralph Tropf, Los Angeles
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In the editor: As an African American who is in favor of the 2nd Amendment but reasonable in that regard, I have my concerns.
We usually read the first few words quickly: “A well-regulated militia.” We are people who interpret the 2nd Amendment as if it were working today.
That said, the militia groups that have been formed are (mostly) in place for nefarious reasons. Racial tensions and political division in this country have given rise to armed split groups that would fight among themselves, not to mention the government.
My support for the Second Amendment has very little to do with taking up arms against the government. Instead, my concern is for those who would hurt me or my family because of the color of our skin.
Scott Crockett, La Habra
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In the editor: Our founding fathers were idealistic and educated men, but they were human. To understand some of what they did, follow the money. Most were slave owners or benefited from the slave trade.
We must recognize the true history of the 2nd Amendment and understand its complicated wording. According to some historians, the 2nd Amendment was drafted to protect the safety of slave owners in the event of a slave revolt. Armed white militias could protect slave owners by crushing rebellions.
The story goes on
The 2nd Amendment has nothing to do with self-protection or fear of big government.
Danute Handy, Santa Barbara
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In the editor: I can’t imagine what all those 9 and 10 year olds, along with their teachers, thought while they were held captive in their classroom, they just wanted their parents to come and help them and save them.
And all Republican congressmen should look in the mirror. During the January 6 uprising, you hid in closets, under desks, and in closed offices. They took you to safe rooms while officers tried to protect you from the crowd.
Did these little ones from Texas have the same opportunity? And you still can’t vote for any gun control?
Lucinda Sanchez, Dana Point
This story originally appeared in the Los Angeles Times.