I'll speak out in support of measures to address the epidemic of gun violence, because I think it's the right thing to do. By adding my voice to the chorus saying it's time to adopt common-sense measures like a ban on assault weapons and requiring universal background checks, I hope to make a difference.

I want people to understand the national debate about gun control is a political one. A majority of Congress resists legislation that would address gun violence because of political efforts by gun-rights advocates like the National Rifle Association of America.

The NRA is very successful at lobbying and politicking. We should be having a conversation about limiting armed violence while protecting the constitutional rights of sportsmen who want to pass along cherished family legacies, and property owners who want to guard themselves against intruders.

Instead, the national narrative on gun control plays on fears that the government wants to take away everyone's weapons and constitutionally protected rights.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/daily-southtown/opinion/ct-sta-slowik-gun-violence-st-0601-20160531-story.html