I personally believe that our criminal justice system is inadequate and is letting criminals run free. The criminals currently have more rights then the victims and are frequently not charged, released with probation, or released when they are clearly going to commmit more crimes.

     One right Americans have is the right to bear arms. In Michigan we have the right to conceal carry with a CPL permit, or to openly carry a handgun. Where legal, we may use a handgun to protect ourselves or those around us. Carrying a handgun with us is a very hard choice, and it is a choice not to be taken lightly.

     I feel that openly carrying a handgun not only gives us a way to protect ourselves from criminals, but also reminds criminals that there can be justice well before they are arrested and arraigned in a court of law. If I am present while a violent crime is being committed or anothers life is in danger, I will intercede to protect myself and others.

     Citizens are not police, and should not act as such. With that said, the police are a responsive organization, and are not adequately backed up by the courts system to protect the citizens from the criminal element. Therein lies a citizens need for a weapon. If all those legally, mentally, and physically capable of carrying a handgun, wether openly or concealed, did so, crime would diminish rapidly.

Jason E. Reese
upopencarry.org
jason@upopencarry.org