A Choice for Tomorrow: Navigating Values in an Era of Violence
- James Jerome Hankin
- Sep 8
- 2 min read
September 8, 2025
Author: James Jerome Hankins/Commentary
What We Blacks Need To Do Part-2
Choose Ye Today!
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The ancient Sixth Commandment admonishes, “Thou shalt not kill.” Conversely, the Second Amendment, ratified in 1791, grants individuals the right to own and operate firearms. Which principle do you choose to instill in your children? In the late 18th century, it took the average person approximately 30 seconds to load a firearm, with a maximum effective range of about 100 yards. In contrast, the average individual can cover 100 yards in roughly 20 seconds, with those in a heightened state of fear often able to run even faster.
Consider the advancements of modern weaponry: today’s firearms can be loaded and fired within as little as four seconds, capable of discharging multiple rounds in rapid succession. As of August 27, 2025, the United States has witnessed 44 school shootings this year alone, with 22 incidents occurring on K-12 school grounds and an additional 22 on college campuses. In the aftermath of each tragic event, a pressing question arises: who has the power to effectuate change and stop this violence?
I attribute the responsibility for this crisis to six key individuals or groups: (1) Donald Trump; (2) the Trump-supporting factions within the GOP; (3) the National Rifle Association (NRA); (4) the 77 million individuals who supported Trump and his Republican allies; (5) those who failed to take a brief moment out of their busy lives to vote; and (6) my U.S. Senator from North Carolina, Ted Budd, who operates a gun store in the historic setting of Rural Hall, NC.
With 195 countries in the world, the United States stands out as the only nation with a greater number of guns than people. An African proverb aptly notes, “When you pray, move your feet." This is a call to action, urging all of us to reflect on our values and the messages we impart to future generations.
James Jerome Hankins is an author, journalist, Realtor®, veteran, union member, former NAACP local president, retired shop teacher with 34 years of service, and a proud alumnus of North Carolina A&T State University, graduating in 1971. He is passionately committed to teaching and empowering the next generation.
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