More gun control is not the answer

As an American high school student I am a member of the most diverse and technologically advanced generation in the history of the world, and that is pretty cool. As a conservative millennial I feel my voice is often not heard.

I believe screaming for more 'gun control” is not the answer. I want politicians on both sides of the aisle to stand up and admit the government failed on all levels during the Parkland shooting.

I am thankful U.S. Rep. Rod Blum had the strength to admit the federal and local governments failed. There was no oversight, and that needs to be addressed. I understand the need and want to feel safe at my school, but the cyclical narrative of disarming innocent civilians is not the answer. It is not only unconstitutional, but it won't solve the problem. Bad guys who want to do harm will find a way to make it happen. It is intellectually dishonest to attack the weapon and not the criminal.

I have made the conscious decision to not walk out of school to make my voice heard, but to walk up to students who are having a hard time and be a positive impact.

It is time we enforce laws already on the books and increase public safety by updating state compliance when it comes to background checks.

Gage West

Cedar Rapids