Isla Vista Shooting: Latino Opinions on Gun Control, as Father of Victim Christopher Martinez Speaks Out Against NRA

*Latino mainstream is far apart from the non-Latino white mainstream on the issue of gun control, especially among youth. The numbers are easy to explain: the greater the number of victims of gun violence, the more likely they will be to want strict controls on firearms. VL

By Nicole Akoukou Thompson, Latinpost

Self-described “sophisticated, polite gentleman” and gunman Elliot Rodger orchestrated a killing spree in Isla Vista, California on Friday evening, leaving seven dead, including Rodger, and spreading a wave of grief through the Santa Barbara City College community, as well as the entire country. It’s a tragedy that’s caused many to consider how this could have been avoided, including the father of 20-year-old Christopher Ross Michaels-Martinez, who was shot down by Rodger in a local deli. Michaels-Martinez’s father blamed the National Rifle Association and “craven politicians” for the death of his son during a press conference on Saturday afternoon.

“Why did Chris die? Chris died because of craven, irresponsible politicians and the NRA. They talk about gun rights. What about Chris’ right to live?! When will this insanity stop? When will enough people say, ‘Stop this madness?’ We don’t have to live like this! Too many have died. We should say to ourselves, ‘Not. One. More,'” Richard Martinez said in a televised statement.

Numerous findings and reports indicate that Latinos thoughts on gun control fall somewhat in line with Richard Martinez’s, with studies showing that Latinos feel strongly about limiting access to guns and applying stricter gun-violence laws.

Click HERE to read the full story.

[Photo by Emily Stanchfield/Flickr]

 

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