As high school students, my peers and I fear for our lives every day due to the lack of gun safety measures in our state of Arkansas. It's a grim reality that we face, one that shouldn't be part of our school experience. We deserve to feel safe and protected in our own classrooms and communities. Every life is precious, and it is imperative that we take proactive steps to ensure the safety of all residents in Fayetteville.

Fayetteville High School’s chapter of Students Demand Action has been working for two years to pass a Secure Storage Resolution,  which would be one of these necessary steps. The Secure Storage Resolution aims to address this pressing issue by ensuring that information is sent home to families on how to store guns securely. This is not about taking away anyone's guns, but rather about making sure they don't end up in the wrong hands, especially those of children or unauthorized users. 

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, nearly 4.6 million children live in a home where at least one gun is kept loaded and unlocked. This poses a significant risk not only to these children but to everyone in the community. Accidental firearm injuries and deaths are preventable, and education on safe gun storage is a crucial, bipartisan step toward reducing these incidents.

Local resolutions have the power to enact meaningful change. We propose that every household receive guidelines and resources on proper firearm storage. This simple yet effective action can lower the risk of tragic accidents and could potentially save lives.

We urge the Fayetteville City Council to pass this resolution, and to ensure a safer community for everyone. Please sign this petition to say yes to a future where our schools are a place of learning, not fear. Together, let's encourage responsible gun ownership and create an environment where everyone can feel secure. Sign now to help make Fayetteville safer for all its citizens.