Guns Fuel Toxic Masculinity and Capitalism

A Bold Statement on Gun Control

The idea that the Right claims the Left wants to take away your guns is something I’ve heard often. But what if I told you that I, personally, want to take away your guns? I’m not joking. I believe it’s time to repeal the Second Amendment.

This statement came after a tragic shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church and School in Minneapolis, Minnesota. On August 27, 2025, a shooter fired bullets at a high velocity through the stained-glass windows, killing two young students and injuring 15 others before taking his own life. It was a heartbreaking event that left many questioning the role of firearms in our society.

Repealing the Second Amendment has long been seen as a pipe dream, but after events like this, it feels more urgent than ever. The number of lives lost each year due to gun violence is staggering, and it’s time we consider drastic measures to address this issue.

I posted my statement on social media, and the response was overwhelming. While some people supported the idea of repealing the Second Amendment, the majority reacted negatively. Many of the responses came from white cisgender males, and their comments were often hostile and aggressive. Some even threatened me, while others made personal attacks or tried to deflect the conversation with unrelated issues.

These reactions highlight the deep-seated connection many people have with their guns. For some, firearms are not just objects; they are part of their identity. Challenging the Second Amendment is seen as a direct attack on their way of life. This hypermasculine mindset often ties gun ownership to fears of being penetrated by outsiders—whether they be homosexuals, trans people, immigrants, or women.

Despite these challenges, I believe that the value of life far outweighs the so-called "freedom" to bear arms. While I don’t know if any reforms will truly solve the problem of gun violence, I still hold onto hope. I think it's time we consider repealing the Second Amendment, while making exceptions for licensed hunters and those who can prove they are at risk of violence.

Just as horses were once essential for transportation, guns may no longer serve the same purpose in modern society. Our founding fathers likely never envisioned the current level of gun violence. They began the Second Amendment with "A well regulated Militia," suggesting that there were limits to firearm ownership.

The founders also had their own flaws. They owned slaves, committed genocide against Native peoples, and excluded women from voting. Over time, legislation and amendments have addressed some of these issues. However, the Second Amendment remains a major obstacle to progress.

Traveling abroad, I’ve heard many people admire the United States but refuse to visit because of the constant gun violence. They believe they have more freedom in countries with strict gun laws. This perception hurts our image globally and prevents people from experiencing all that our country has to offer.

Gun violence affects everyone except those who profit from it—firearms manufacturers, lobbyists, and politicians. This issue also gives our enemies a reason to see us as weak. Instead of reducing the supply of guns, sales continue to rise. The U.S. has the highest rate of firearms per capita, with 120.5 guns per 100 people.

When will we stop fighting insanity with insanity? How many more lives will be lost under the guise of "freedom"? When will we break the alliance between corporations and powerful groups that influence our politicians?

It’s time to ask ourselves: when is enough, enough?