Gun violence has never felt closer to home than it does now.
On Monday the 25th, a shooting occurred in the Boise Mall. Two victims died and four were injured—the suspect died in the hospital the following day. By all accounts, this the first mass shooting that I’m fully aware of in Boise.
I was born and raised in Boise. I went to that mall probably almost every week in high school. Whether I’d be shopping for the upcoming school year or going to the food court after class, I knew most of its twist and turns like the back of my hand.
And truthfully, I never felt unsafe there. Blame it on my invincible youth complex or my innocent arrogance, the thought of anything like this happening seemed inconceivable. When I picture myself in that mall and what I would I do if heard echoes of gunfire, I nearly shudder.
It’s no secret that gun violence in America is a leading issue of high debate. Mass shootings happen nearly weekly—it was ingrained in my head that this is completely normal. But now, since it happened so close to home, I feel differently.
Idaho is one the least progressive states when it comes to almost anything, but especially so regarding gun reform. We are one of the only states that do not require a permit to buy a rifle, handgun or shotgun as well as not require a permit to carry a rifle, handgun, or shotgun. The cherry on top of the cake—we can open carry with no permit.
I stray left when it comes to gun reform. In my own perfect world, most guns would be illegal to own. I know many others drastically differ with their opinions and I’m okay with that. I know others hold varying viewpoints on the matter and I respect almost all of them. But I will never be able to empathize with our open carry law.
It makes no sense critically. The argument for self-defense is strong and understandable, but that’s what permits should be for. If people want to carry, they should have to have some sort of guideline saying they’re qualified to do so.
There is no fundamental differentiation between open-carrying individuals who have either good or bad intentions. There is some peace of mind that comes with knowing people would need permits, but without that, how can I be expected to trust anyone with a gun?
I’m not insinuating that this law is the reason the shooting occurred on Monday. I am saying that it’s time for Idaho and Governor Little to reevaluate their gun laws and priorities. At what point does proponing for the second amendment turn into blind ignorance? I would not like to wait to find out.
Carter Kolpitcke can be reached at [email protected].