Wondering around the NRA show and socializing with my friends and colleagues reminded me again just how varied and friendly the American shooters are. A monoculture may have the perceived advantage of default cohesiveness, but conformity usually is enforced subtly yet strongly behind the scenes. In my world, conformity isn’t a virtue. The premium is placed on treating others with consideration and respect, and on being supportive of those who aren’t welcomed by the mainstream. A clear example was the enthusiastic welcome received by Pink Pistols members at shooting events nationwide compared to the lukewarm or even hostile reception at Pride events in states like California.
Be friendly and be safe. Creed, ethnicity, sex, age, martial status, other traits besides those that violate the “safe and friendly” requirements, are of no consequence at the range. We welcome one and all.
That’s me, in the middle: the witch* with the beard.
Yes, I am biologically male. Yes, I identify as a woman and wear women’s clothing whenever possible. I am also pro-gun, pro-self-defense, and pro-liberty, and that’s why I asked Oleg to create a poster like this.
I’d love for this poster to be used as rhetorical ammunition against the folks who believe that “Guns are only for straight white males.” This ought to shut them up fast, and maybe get them to re-think their positions.
If you have any questions about who I am or how I identify, I will be happy to answer them as I consider this a “teachable moment.” Any legitimate question, no matter how poorly phrased, is welcome.
* It’s the costume I wore on Halloween of last year. The convergence of “witch costume” and “Avada Kedavra on my rifle” was just too rich to ignore.
However you may identify, you have God-given rights, too. Your life is worth defending and, therefore, valuable. Exercise your right to self-defense against an abusive government and against individuals who, for whatever reason, wish you harm.
“Don’t tread on me” is not the exclusive property of any group or individual.
I find myself wanting to buy one of these lately.
Thanks Erin. Sent one to my daughter.
It’s actually very simple and direct. It’s a right of “the people.” And “the people” are quite varied. Take “creed, ethnicity, sex, age, martial status, and other traits,” and mix and match into the various combinations and permutations for glimpse into what “the people” is.