By Kenia Cabahug
Staff Writer
Many have tied the recent spate of mass shootings to Donald Trump becoming president. Could there be a relationship?
There could be indeed.
Since he stepped into office things have escalated. I’m not saying he is the reason why there are so many shootings, but he has no filter when it comes to speaking his mind, validating others with bizarre beliefs, and he has done nothing in regards to gun control.
Another concern: It worries me that officials refuse to call these shooters what they are: domestic terrorists. A terrorist is someone who instills terror into others. Isn’t that what all these mass shootings have done? These shootings have indeed caused terror in the victims, the families of the victims and anyone who is aware of these heart-breaking events.
Officials justify the actions of the shooters by saying they had mental health issues. Killing innocent people and committing such massacres cannot be justified by anything, not even mental health.
There have been many shootings this year, leaving thousands dead, injured or traumatized. Many have lost family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, you name it. Some of those affected are just finding the courage to come to light and talk about their experiences.
I have been fortunate enough to not be personally affected by any of the shootings, yet I am traumatized by what is happening in our country. I am scared enough to have second thoughts of going to concerts, Las Vegas, even church, which should be a safe haven for all.
Yet I will not let the terror stop me from living my life to the fullest. Whether we have been personally affected by any of the shootings, we must not let the shooters win.
Instead of pointing fingers, we can help each other in addressing gun control, racism and any other issue stopping us from living comfortably in our country.
