Gun violence is a daily crime that threatens our most valuable thing, life.

According to Everytown Research and Policy, every day around 120-130 people die from gun violence in the United States alone. Every year, there about 45,000-48,000 gun violence deaths, including homicides and suicides, according to Johns Hopkins statistics. 

The topic about gun laws and gun violence has been a hot debate for decades, including mass shootings and illegal possession of firearms. Mass shootings are incidents where many people are killed or injured due to firearm-related violence. In 2025, there were 425 mass shootings or more than four people in the U.S., according to TheTrace.org. Though shooting deaths have decreased for a fourth consecutive year from nearly 17,000 in 2024 to 14,651 in 2025, one big question we ask is “when will it stop?”

Anyone can be affected by gun violence. In 2025, Australia had its 2nd deadliest mass shooting in history at a Hanukkah festival in Bondi Beach. The Australian prime minister wasted no time in enforcing laws to ensure it wouldn’t happen again.

 At times, the presence of firearms can make other people feel threatened or unsafe for their lives. Gun violence can prevent community services from happening and people from socializing. Students shared their opinionated response on this rising problem. 

“I see a lot of people lose their lives over unprotected gun laws,” freshman Harper Wallauer said. “Advocating for guns doesn’t make you immune; it makes you look harmful. The fewer guns we have, the fewer people can be hurt.”  

According to the Small Arms Survey statistics, more than 1 billion firearms are transported globally. The majority is in the hands of regular civilians and 15 percent is in control of law enforcement and military programs. This easy access to firearms can harm society. 

“I believe that we should be implementing harsher background checks when wanting to purchase a gun and as well raising the age at which you can purchase a firearm,” junior Mary Hearn said.

Stand up and keep the community safe. You can play an important role in protesting against gun violence to make it clear that we must control this problem with strict laws.