I spent 14+ hours in the Capitol on Monday listening to and then finally giving testimony after 11pm. Of those testifying, there were at least 10 supporting gun rights and/or opposition to current proposals for every one calling for tighter/more Draconian restrictions. Attendance was more like 5:1 but it seems those with more to lose were willing to wait many more hours to be heard.
However, our Media and certain Patch contributors have highlighted only one aspect of this debate, either through reporting or their own opinions. Should you find yourself here, please take the time to view these 4 minute videos of some of the better testimony given.
Powerful testimony from a father of one of the Newtown victims
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B0xLbhWsUfE
Serious words from a naturalized American
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXqzUu8SyEY
Professional forensic firearms points out how little “assault weapons” and “hi-cap mags” have to do with crimes
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HaS2zM9rc1w
African American man on the efficacy of gun control legislation
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtZjUcze-k0
Strong statement by a woman gun owner who calls out panel members for ignoring speakers
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbJmlz40su4
The last guy to speak at sometime around 2:30 AM, 12+ hours after the citizen testimony started and he calls out the politicians for not paying attention
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cx60VC4T018
I spent an hour on line with this guy waiting to clear the newly installed metal detectors in the Capitol; he addresses many of the suggested “solutions” from a practical perspective.
