Letter to the Editor: Second Amendment Sanctuary

To the Editor:

The Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, as interpreted by the 2008 District of Columbia v. Heller decision, affirms individuals’ right to keep and bear arms in their homes for legal purposes, such as self-protection. Now, as of July first, concealed carry, even without a permit, is legal in Iowa. The right of hunters to own and use the weapons designed for this purpose has never been seriously threatened.

In light of these well-protected gun rights, we have to wonder just what it is that those who advocate making our county a “Second Amendment Sanctuary” want? Are there additional gun rights that they seek? If so, precisely what rights? The right to carry military-style assault weapons on the streets of our peaceful towns? Do they seek sanctuary for right wing militia groups?

It is difficult to ignore the fact that the word “sanctuary” usually refers to people, not to constitutional amendments. Advocates must inform us of just what their objectives are. Then we can decide whether this will contribute to what makes our county such a wonderful place to live.

Rolf Johnson
New Albin