Gun Control or Confederate Flags: Pick One

After the killings in South Carolina, pundits are divided on what they should talk about. Some have harped on the racial aspects of the case, manifesting itself in a debate over the acceptability of government agencies flying the confederate flag, while others are calling for increased gun regulations after yet another mass shooting.

So why can’t the pundits be split on which issue should take priority? Fighting on multiple fronts to reform two contentious policies will only lead to inaction. A united front on one policy topic doesn’t guarantee success by any means, but trying to tackle a multitude of issues simultaneously can only lead to inaction.

While both issues deserve attention, there are certain ways that progress can be maximized on all fronts.

The first and most complex issue raised from this shooting is race. While there is no legislative action that could eliminate racism or level the playing field, some have taken up a proxy war. Many are now calling for legislation to remove Confederate flags from government buildings.

As the Confederate battle flag continues to fly at full mast in Charleston, many have complained about its presence, citing racial prejudice that is inherently linked to its historical context. Referring to the flag as an emblem of hate, Cornell William Brooks, president of the N.A.A.C.P., said, “That symbol must be removed from our state capital.” While many Southerners claim it is exclusively a symbol for states-rights; that argument is clearly misguided. As for other arguments in favor of flying the flag, there is only one: it’s America so I can do what I want. Yes you can, but in accepting that there are racist overtones to the flag, government buildings probably should not be donning such a symbol.

If Confederate flags are banned, the symbolic victory would be decisive on the long road toward increased racial equality.

On the other hand, this shooting has renewed vociferous debate concerning gun-control legislation. After every mass shooting, a short-lived frenzy is sparked. Celebrities, politicians and common citizens rally around potential limitations on the acquisition of firearms. But without fail, the issue is forgotten in a matter of weeks and federal legislation dies with popular interest. Gun-control legislation is inevitable, but the question is when will the country be ready for it? Practical legislation is being thwarted by the antiquated second amendment and misguided arguments from conservative commentators like Chris Stirewalt of Fox News, “The legislation wouldn’t have prevented the shooting had it been in place.” Since it wouldn’t have stopped nine murders that have already happened, limiting the number of personal firearms sold in America is pointless because crazy people will always find a way to get a gun, right Chris? That’s how human behavior works? No! Limiting access to firearms inherently decreases the likelihood that a lethal weapon will end up in the wrong hands.

So what should we focus on, limiting confederate flags or firearms? Let’s weigh this conundrum in terms of practicality and importance. Considering the political climate and the fact that Republican primaries are around the corner, limitations on flying the Confederate flag are probably more likely to pass. Federal legislation for limitations on firearms will be nearly impossible, despite the fact that legal firearms kill 34 people for every one that they save.

That said, while legislation on Confederate flags would undoubtedly be symbolic and a great move for race relations, tangible impacts from this legislation would pale in comparison to restrictions on personal gun purchases and ownership. America is far behind the rest of the world on this topic. Most European countries do not allow for citizens to own a gun at all, much less military grade firearms. So while some continue to hide behind tradition, they forget that some traditions are antiquated for a reason.

While both fights have merit, America should chose to put its efforts into reforming the criteria for gun ownership rather than addressing the Confederate flag.

Image: Via Flickr/Dickson Phua