The rhetoric surrounding Second Amendment sanctuaries is morphing in a disturbing way. It is becoming more radical and dangerous for the citizens of Virginia. There are now localities discussing deputizing members of their citizenry to rise up against the state government. Anti-government rhetoric is being spread on gun message boards and blogs about the impending armed uprising against gun violence prevention champion Gov. Ralph Northam, House and Senate leadership, and the new Democratic majorities.

Whether pro-gun extremists are bluffing or not, these are calls for insurrectionism and anarchy. This is what happens when the rules of democracy are disregarded. Gestures of force and violence replace true representation and expression. We cannot allow armed insurrectionists to hijack our democratic process. Gun violence prevention champions have a mandate from Virginia voters and deserve the ability to enact change without being threatened by violence.

The movement for gun violence prevention is a social movement. We strive to incorporate the principles of social justice, racial equity and the freedom for all Virginians to live their lives without the constant worry of being shot in neighborhoods, by an abuser, in a municipal building, a college classroom or any other everyday place.