Another school year. Another school shooting. American Students Victims of Gun Violence Deserve Nobel Prize.
Four people, including two students, lost their lives after a 14-year-old opened fire at Apalachee High School in Georgia, USA. The shooter, identified as Colt Gray, has been taken into custody and will be tried as an adult. According to authorities, Gray was described as a “quiet individual” who frequently skipped class. He was also investigated by the FBI last year for making online threats about carrying out a school shooting.
The ongoing tragedy of gun violence continues and American Students victims of Gun violence deserve Nobel Prize Recognition. This is akin to the Nobel Peace Prize, similar to Malala’s, for their courage in advocating for their right to education.
Gun violence persistently afflicts American schools, impacting students, communities, and families with enduring tragedy and devastating consequences.
Despite mounting public pressure and repeated tragedies, government officials have failed to enact meaningful legislation to address the ongoing epidemic of gun violence.
Citing the constitutional right to bear arms as a barrier to change. Meanwhile, incidents of violence against students in other parts of the world receive widespread attention and sympathy. Highlighting a troubling double standard in the global response to such atrocities.
When Malala Yousafzai was attacked while attending school in Pakistan, the incident garnered widespread global attention and condemnation. Western politicians, human rights organizations, and the international community rallied behind Malala, condemning the act of violence and expressing solidarity with her cause.
Malala’s courage and advocacy for girls’ education earned her admiration and support worldwide. This lead her to numerous accolades, including the Nobel Peace Prize. The attack on Malala sparked outrage and prompted calls for action to ensure the safety and education of children, particularly girls, in regions affected by conflict and extremism.
Similar incidents in the United States, though occurring, receive less prominent coverage and may not elicit the same level of outrage or support from elected officials as high-profile cases like the attack on Malala Yousafzai in Pakistan.
American students and their families deserve recognition akin to the Nobel Peace Prize, similar to Malala’s, for their courage in advocating for their right to education.
Statistics Illuminate the Grim Reality
- As of February 15th, the Gun Violence Archive reports that in the U.S. this year. At least 4,994 individuals have lost their lives to gun violence, averaging about 108 deaths daily. ABC News also notes that another 3,351 people have been injured.
- In 2023 alone, over 100 school shootings were reported nationwide, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries, according to data compiled by gun violence prevention organizations.
- These incidents occur with alarming frequency, averaging more than one shooting per week, leaving students and educators living in constant fear for their safety.
- Since the tragic shooting at Columbine High School in 1999, there have been more than 280 school shootings in the United States, resulting in the loss of hundreds of lives and countless injuries.
- In recent years, gun violence in the United States has become an alarmingly common occurrence. From 2016, there has been over 10,000 homicides by firearm in the U.S. each year and firearms have been found to make up the majority of murder weapons in the country by far, demonstrating increasing rates of gun violence occurring throughout the nation. As of 2024, Mississippi was the state with the highest gun violence rate per 100,000 residents in the United States, at 29.7 percent, followed by Louisiana, at 28.2 percent. In comparison, Rhode Island had a gun violence rate of 3.1 percent, the lowest out of all the states. (Statista)
The Toll of Gun Violence
- Gun violence injuries cost victims and their families more than $1 billion each year in
- initial direct medical costs alone.(Senate Joint Economic Committee)
- Families mourn the loss of loved ones who went to school one day and never returned home, while survivors grapple with physical and emotional trauma that may never fully heal.
- The psychological impact of such events can be profound, leading to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder among survivors and witnesses.
Monetary Compensation & Medical Support
Countries like India provide monetary compensation and free healthcare to victims of violence and terrorism, a practice not seen in the USA (Government of India).
The victims of gun violence endure unnecessary suffering due to government and political inaction. It begs the question: why should citizens or victims bear the brunt of circumstances beyond their control?
In the USA, victims and their families often receive the message of “Thoughts and Prayers.” from the Politicians.
Politicized Prayer: How Thoughts and Prayers Hinder Gun Legislation
In her research paper titled “Politicized Prayer: How Thoughts and Prayers Hinder Gun Legislation,” Hope Cody from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga delves into the impact of political rhetoric on the formulation of gun control policies.
Cody explores how the phenomenon of offering “thoughts and prayers” in response to gun violence incidents has become politicized. Often this serves as a substitute for tangible legislative action.
By examining the discourse surrounding gun legislation and the role of religious rhetoric in shaping public opinion, Cody sheds light on the challenges faced by policymakers in enacting effective measures to address gun violence.
Through empirical analysis and critical evaluation. The paper seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms through which “thoughts and prayers” rhetoric perpetuates the status quo and inhibits meaningful progress towards gun reform.
Political Inaction in the Face of Crisis
- Elected officials have been slow to respond to calls for gun reform. Citing the Second Amendment right to bear arms as a justification for maintaining the status quo.
- Lawmakers hesitate to challenge the powerful gun lobby and risk alienating their constituents, leaving sensible gun control measures elusive.
A Global Double Standard
- While international attention often focuses on high-profile cases such as the attack on Malala Yousafzai in Pakistan.
- Similar incidents in the United States receive less prominent coverage and are not always met with the same level of outrage or support from elected officials.
Citizens Take Action
- During this election year, concerned citizens can make their voices heard by voting for candidates who prioritize gun reform and public safety.
- They can also support organizations advocating for sensible gun control measures. They participate in grassroots efforts to raise awareness about the issue.
In the face of this ongoing crisis, there is an urgent need for bipartisan action to address gun violence. They should ensure the safety of students in American schools and universities.
It is time for elected officials to prioritize the well-being of their constituents over political interests. They should take decisive steps to enact sensible gun control measures that protect the lives of future generations.
Anything less would be a failure of leadership and a betrayal of the trust placed in them by the American people.
Our students and children represent the future of our country, embodying the potential and promise of tomorrow. It is paramount that we prioritize their safety and well-being, shielding them from the scourge of gun violence.
Every child deserves the right to learn and grow in an environment free from fear and danger. To ensure their protection, we must enact comprehensive measures to prevent gun violence in schools and communities. Addressing the root causes of this epidemic and implementing effective strategies for intervention and prevention.
It is our collective responsibility to safeguard our children and provide them with the security and support they need to thrive and fulfill their potential.
About the Author
Dr. Tausif Malik is a social entrepreneur, publisher, and academician, renowned for his innovative ventures. He founded and publishes The Desi Buzz, GCC Startup News, Startup Berita, and Halal Biz News, amplifying entrepreneurship globally. Dr. Malik also spearheads AIMBSN, Halal Angels Network, and Startup Villages, fostering startup ecosystems. His groundbreaking initiative, RiseBack.org, offers affordable edtech solutions, providing Indian university programs starting at $50 per month and professional IT courses priced at $250-$350. Through his diverse endeavors, Dr. Malik empowers individuals with access to education and opportunities.
