University of Dallas president: We education leaders must demand action on gun violence
Last week we were confronted once again by the specter of violence and death from another mass shooting that took 17 lives at a school in Parkland, Fla.
Like many of you, as I consider this event, I am filled with deep sadness, confusion, even anger. It has been nearly 19 years since the Columbine shooting. The years since have seen so many incidents that I am sorry to say I cannot name them all.
Sadly, educational institutions are frequently targets of these attacks. I am convinced that those who lead educational institutions must take the lead in keeping this issue before the public. We who are entrusted with educating the next generations must stand up and call our society to address this cultural blight and work to prevent future tragedies. I am gratified by the demand for action from the students of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. We must listen, and hear the victims.
As a society we must demand more of our country's leaders. Current federal policy prevents the comprehensive study of the reality of gun violence as a public health threat. Thus, critical information that would inform evidence-based approaches to address the issue is unavailable. Also, we need a committed focus on mental health programs and sufficient funding to prevent individuals who need help from being overlooked. We must demand that all lines of inquiry be pursued. Everything must be on the table. No source of data or legitimate questions should be exempt from our consideration.
Read more: https://www.dallasnews.com/opinion/commentary/2018/02/22/university-dallas-president-education-leaders-must-demand-action-gun-violence