In a significant move that has reverberated through the retail and gun control communities, Dick’s Sporting Goods has announced it will no longer sell assault-style weapons in its stores. The decision comes in the wake of the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, which took the lives of 17 individuals and prompted widespread calls for reform in gun legislation.
Typically, the aftermath of mass shootings leads to a repetitive cycle of thoughts, prayers, and debates over stricter gun laws, only to fade into silence until the next incident. However, this time, student activists have rallied for change and their efforts appear to be yielding results.
Edward Stack, Chairman and CEO of Dick’s Sporting Goods, stated on Good Morning America that the company “felt it needed to do something” following the Parkland tragedy. He emphasized their support for the Second Amendment, saying, “I’m a gun owner myself. We’ve just decided that based on what’s happened and with these guns, we don’t want to be part of this story.”
Alongside halting the sales of assault-style firearms, Dick’s will also restrict gun sales to individuals under the age of 21, a move that goes beyond current laws. They will no longer offer high-capacity magazines and have committed to never selling bump stocks.
The retailer’s statement on Twitter expressed their condolences while highlighting the importance of proactive measures: “Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the victims and their loved ones. But thoughts and prayers are not enough.” They voiced their admiration for the students advocating for stricter gun control, acknowledging that existing systems fail to adequately protect children and communities.
Notably, Dick’s had previously ceased selling assault-style rifles after the Sandy Hook shooting, and now plans to extend this policy to its Field & Stream stores as well. Stack revealed that the shooter in the Parkland incident had previously purchased a firearm from Dick’s, though it was not the weapon used in the attack. He stressed the need for legislative action to prevent firearms from reaching dangerous individuals until lawmakers take decisive steps.
Despite anticipating some backlash, Stack remains confident in the positive response to the company’s actions. “If the kids in Parkland are being brave enough to stand up and do this, we can be brave enough to stand up with them.” This courageous stance may even influence where many families choose to shop for sports equipment, especially with the upcoming baseball season.
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In summary, Dick’s Sporting Goods has taken a bold step in the gun debate by ceasing the sale of assault-style weapons and implementing age restrictions on firearm purchases. This move reflects a growing sentiment among consumers and advocates for stricter gun laws, marking a potential shift in the retail landscape.