EDITOR:

I attended the Delta County Commission meeting on June 6th primarily to give testimony regarding a vote on sanctuary status for the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution. Two gentlemen, both veterans and firearm owners, expressed concern that other issues may deserve the time instead of this. I wish to thank them for their service and willingness to speak on this issue.

I concur that there are numerous, important issues before the commission, but I also feel that this issue deserved attention. There is no “best time” for deliberation on any issue, and I’m glad the commission gave this one a hearing.

One of the speakers mention that in the past 10 years (since the first affirmation of sanctuary status) that “nothing seemed to have changed” (pretty sure that’s accurate). I can’t think of a reason to contradict that statement relative to the county. The country has, however, attempted to (successfully in some areas) reduce the freedom to own and use firearms by legal and responsible individuals. Denying illegal and irresponsible ownership and use is something I fully support. Honest folk should not be deprived freedoms and liberties because of the evil behavior of criminals and dishonest politicians.

For us to maintain our culture, history and enjoyment of outdoor activities as well as home and family protection, the Second Amendment and the Michigan Constitution’s support of gun ownership must be safeguarded.

For well over 60 years (ugh!) I have heard misinterpretations and condemnations of the Second A. These can be put into a number of categories, but one seems to be present in most. That being that it provides for gun owners to act in an aggressive or proactive manner. I believe the Second A is more of a defensive declaration providing for citizens to defend their country, state, home and family. Even the concept of a militia implies defense, a function different from the armed forces and law enforcement.

It’s unfortunate that we now seem to equate gun ownership more with personal defense than recreation. Dependence on governmental assistance should be secondary to the immediate defense one may be called upon to perform. Delta County is approximately 2,000 square miles in area. This is a huge area in which our law enforcement personnel must respond in an emergency. Given that, I am glad I have the means and right to defend myself and family until law enforcement can respond and eliminate the threat.

Commissioners voted unanimously in favor of sanctuary status, and I commend them for that. I again thank the citizen veterans for their service and showing up instead of complaining in anonymity. Another right (First Amendment) insures they may come forward and voice their concerns.

Michael A. Glass

Nahma