LITTLETON, Colo. – Next year marks the 25th anniversary of the tragic shooting at Columbine High School, a day that witnessed the loss of 13 lives in a senseless act of violence. A day that was once unimaginable. However, in the years following the Columbine massacre, the frequency of mass shootings in America has increased dramatically. These tragedies have become so common that they are no longer shocking, with Columbine now ranking at number 16 in the list of deadliest mass shootings in the country.
Last year alone, the United States experienced 656 mass shootings, resulting in nearly 19,000 gun-related deaths. This horrific trend of violence has continued, with a recent shooting at Perry High School in Iowa claiming the lives of one student and injuring several others. Despite the prevalence of such tragedies, the national response to mass shootings has remained consistent.
Politicians express their sorrow and offer thoughts and prayers, while well-meaning individuals call for action. However, this call for action is often met with resistance from politicians influenced by the gun lobby, who urge the public to allow time for mourning and healing. This request for time to process the grief associated with these events often has a secondary, unintended effect – it allows the public to move on and forget.
The pain and suffering caused by these events lingers for the families of the victims. Yet, for the rest of us, the shock and horror seem to fade away all too quickly. The frequency of mass shootings has desensitized the public, making these tragedies the norm rather than the exception.
As we approach the 25th anniversary of the Columbine massacre, it is essential to recognize the disturbing trend of mass shootings in America and the devastating impact they have on communities across the country. These tragedies should not be forgotten, and the victims and their families deserve meaningful action to prevent further violence.
In summary, the 25th anniversary of the Columbine massacre serves as a sobering reminder of the prevalence of mass shootings in America and the need for effective measures to address this ongoing crisis. These incidents must not become routine, and it is imperative that we take proactive steps to prevent future tragedies.