My family has earned its place in history, fighting valiantly against the shackles of slavery during the Civil War. From those tumultuous days to the modern era, my family has not hesitated to sacrifice flesh and blood, standing on the battlefields of almost every conflict since that defining moment. We have answered the call to defend freedom and democracy, believing wholeheartedly in the principles this nation was built upon.

Today, however, the battlefield has shifted. The enemy is no longer a palpable force we can confront with valor and courage. It is a silently pervasive industry, transforming the sacred duty of defending one’s country into a for-profit venture—the sale of weapons of war. This industry fuels conflicts around the world, leading to unnecessary casualties and suffering, all for the sake of financial gain.

The global arms trade contributes not only to international instability but also increasingly promotes violence at home. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), the U.S. indiscriminately remains the largest arms exporter, responsible for 37% of global arms sales from 2017 to 2021. This rampant proliferation of weapons is a threat, extending beyond war zones and infiltrating our communities, homes, and everyday lives.

We must draw a line. Imagine a future where profits are not counted in blood, where safety and security are achievable not through superior firepower, but through diplomacy, cooperation, and understanding. The cycle of violence driven by the unchecked sale of weapons of war must be dismantled. This is not just a call to action to stop these sales; it’s a plea to ceaselessly value human life over monetary gain.

Lawmakers must enact stringent regulations and rigorous oversight on arms manufacturing and sales, ensuring accountability and preventing the unnecessary loss of life. We urge the government to prioritize peace over profit by investing in initiatives that foster international peace and support for victims of armed conflict.

Join me in calling for an end to the rampant and reckless for-profit sale of weapons of war. Together, we can ensure that those who fought, made the ultimate sacrifices for freedom, did not do so in vain. Our effort today can forge a safer, more peaceful world for future generations. Sign this petition to demand change and to honor the legacies of the brave souls who came before us.