In America, it may come as a surprise to some that gun raffles have become a somewhat normal aspect of fundraising, especially in certain communities. As noted by various outlets, including the BBC, “gun sweepstakes” can start at as low as $5 per ticket, with organizations like the National Rifle Association holding these events for many years. However, following the tragic shooting in Parkland, Florida, which claimed the lives of 17 schoolchildren and educators, these raffles have faced increased criticism from those weary of gun violence—particularly when it involves children.
A Disturbing Example
One disturbing example comes from Neosho, Missouri, where a local youth baseball team for kids aged 7 to 9 was selling tickets for a chance to win an AR-15—a weapon often associated with mass shootings. This raffle was organized by a parent who owned a gun shop, and it was intended as a standard fundraising effort. However, the reaction from the community after the Parkland incident led to a reconsideration of such events. The principal at a local elementary school announced the raffle on social media just hours after the tragedy, promoting it as a means to support the young baseball players and their families.
Community Backlash
Coach Mark Thompson, who was involved in the raffle, initially thought about canceling it after the shooting but later decided to continue, claiming he wanted to “turn it into a positive thing” despite the backlash. Critics expressed concern that using children in this context trivialized the severity of gun violence. Thompson later acknowledged that he had mischaracterized his critics as a “hate group” but later recanted, admitting that he respected their views.
National Attention
The controversy surrounding gun raffles has drawn national attention, with other public figures, such as Congressman Tyler Morgan from Kansas, refusing to cancel similar events. Morgan argued that discussing the issue is essential, but holding a gun raffle in the wake of such tragedy seems counterproductive to many observers. He insisted that while the winner of the raffle would undergo a background check, state laws allow for the legal transfer of firearms without stringent oversight, raising concerns about safety.
Organizations Taking a Stand
Conversely, some organizations have taken a stand against these events. The South Lyon Football Booster Organization recently canceled a game dinner that was set to include an AR-15 raffle, citing sensitivity to the recent tragedies. Their decision reflects a growing awareness of the need to prioritize the safety of children over fundraising activities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are numerous ways to support schools and youth sports that do not involve promoting firearms. From vacations to dining experiences, the options are vast and can foster community spirit without the risks associated with guns. Let’s focus on creating safer environments for our children instead of bringing weapons into the equation. For more insights into family-related topics, consider checking out this article on fertility supplements, or explore this resource on artificial insemination to learn more about family planning.