School of Law Hosts First Monday Forum:
Right to Bear Arms v. Gun Violence
On Monday, October 1, 2001, about 70 students, faculty, and members of the community gathered for a lively and informative discussion on gun violence. The program was organized under the auspices of First Monday and sponsored by the Washburn University School of Law, the Washburn Association of Public Interest Law, and the Washburn Criminal Justice Law Society. First Monday is an annual, informational campaign that focuses on social justice and takes place on campuses nationwide on the first Monday in October to coincide with the opening day of the U.S. Supreme Court.
This year, First Monday turned the spotlight on the gun industry and explored demands that it include safety features on all guns and work to keep guns out of the hands of children and criminals. The program began with "Deadly Business," a documentary about gun industry marketing and product design that draws parallels to the tobacco industry. Following the film, a diverse panel of speakers addressed the issues of gun violence, gun rights, and gun industry marketing.
Despite ideological differences regarding the right to bear arms and the interpretation of gun violence statistics, audience members and panelists agreed that America suffers from too many accidental shooting deaths and injuries. Significant differences were apparent, however, in views on how society ought to curtail gun violence. Some favored additional legislation regulating manufacturers and gun users, while others supported diminished governmental regulation and increased gun safety training.
Panelists for the forum were:
- Jason Coody, Washburn Law Student and former police officer
- William Lucero, attorney advocating for victims of gun violence
- Randy Hendershot, United States Attorney's Office
- Scott Hattrup, attorney and representative from the National Rifle Association
- Thimios Zaharopoulos, Chair of Mass Media, Washburn University
The forum was moderated by Washburn Law Professor Ellen Byers.
Audience at Washburn Law First Monday Forum
