Five Words to Make Change

In writing my second critique, I set out with the intent to avoid an article that repeated the topic of my previous post…guns. I found it difficult, as this is what is in our headlines currently. I’ve read many articles about the tragic, mass shooting that occurred in Orlando, Florida on June 12^th. There have been many disputes over the intent of the shooter and countless outpourings of love and support for the community. But what connects with me are discussions and insight, as to what we need to do as a country to make change that will minimize the occurrence of events like these.

The article I am going to reference is excerpted from a book written by John Paul Stevens, and was published by The Washington Post on April11, 2014. Although this article is dated, it is entirely relevant to current events, and offers pertinent information and perspective. Stevens is a retired associate justice of the Supreme Court, who served close to 35 years. He was enlisted in the U.S. Navy from 1942-1945. After served time, he attended law school at the Northwestern University School of Law. He earned the highest GPA in the history of law school and received his Juris Doctor in 1947. His book, “Six Amendments: How and Why We Should Change the Constitution,” was published in April, 2014. Although he was registered as a Republican, he was considered to be on the liberal side of the Court. When asked in a 2007 interview if he still considers himself a Republican, he declined to comment.

In Steven's writings, references are made to the many killings that have occurred due to our lenient and unclear laws on guns.  He continues by breaking down the history the Second Amendment in our court systems and how we have failed to put necessary restrictions into place. He states that “anomalous result can be avoided by adding five words to the test of the Second Amendment”…….

               “A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms when serving in the Militia shall not be infringed.”

I found Stevens excerpt to be extremely informative and offer insight and facts that I previously did not have. His career experience absolutely adds to the validity of the case he is making. I found it so absorbing to read, and followed well with what the author was saying. It is so important that we act to make change. This was an amazing read on how we can began to do so.

 

                                              

                                                                John Paul Stevens 

                                     Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States