As a retired veteran turning 54 this month, Airsoft has become a significant part of my life. Like many others, I've invested tens of thousands of dollars in this pastime. It provides not only exercise and socialization but also a way to bond with my son and grandson. This sport spans generations, and it shouldn't be shackled by restrictions meant for firearms.

The proposed Bill C-21 seeks to incorrectly categorize Airsoft and paintball guns as firearms. However, these are not firearms; they fire harmless 6mm plastic balls. This classification is a misleading approach that threatens a beloved hobby enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of Canadians, ranging from children as young as 7 to seniors up to 75.

The impact of this misclassification would be devastating, particularly for the more than 170 businesses across Canada, including stores, indoor and outdoor fields, and local manufacturers producing attachments. It's not just about commerce; it's about community and tradition.

Attaching Airsoft and paintball to firearms legislation is a serious infringement on our rights. Discussions about these sports need to be separate from firearms discourse, allowing for a rational and informed approach.

I urge policymakers to reconsider this aspect of Bill C-21 and protect the future of Airsoft and paintball in Canada. Join me to stop this unfair inclusion and preserve a vital part of Canadian recreational culture.

Sign this petition to keep Airsoft and paintball free from unnecessary legislative burdens.