Gun Show Petition

We, the undersigned, greatly appreciate the Ventura County Fair Board’s decision to continue gun shows at the Ventura County Fair Grounds through 2022. We thank the Fair Board for this decision and strongly encourage them to continue to offer gun shows at the fairgrounds in the future as gun shows provide a safe and invaluable educational opportunity for all members of our community.

In 2020, the diversity of firearm ownership changed in California: nearly 50% of new firearms were purchased by women, an estimated 60% were Democrats and minority firearm ownership increased by 58%.  Gun shows are attended by people of all genders, races and ethnicities, as well as Democrats, Republicans and Independents. It is a naturally inclusive event serving all members of our community interested in exercising their constitutional rights for sport, hunting and personal safety and defense. It is imperative that the fairgrounds continue to host an assorted lineup of events accessible to the unique and diverse needs of all residents. Events should not be limited at this location due to the personal beliefs or interests of any individual member of this board. The board must instead make decisions based upon the community’s needs, interests, and safety.

Gun Shows remain as a primary source of firearm safety and education. It is an ideal place for current and prospective firearm owners to gather immense information in one consolidated location. Access to information is paramount to safe and responsible firearm ownership. Continuing gun shows demonstrates the Fair Board’s commitment to safety. A decision to discontinue gun shows and eliminate such a large source of education, where firearm safety is unquestionably the primary focus, makes a community less safe.

The Ventura County Fair Board along with Crossroads of the West continue to have an impeccable record of following state laws and regulations without incident. NO ONE can walk out of a gun show with a firearm. All purchases are subject to the same background check and 10-day wait period as every other firearm transaction in the state. There are no loopholes in this process. In fact, no crimes in Ventura County or surrounding areas have ever been connected to the Ventura County Gun Show.

Gun shows are safe and provide a significant source of education. Continuing gun shows into the future continues to provide a needed service to our community. We strongly encourage the Ventura County Fair Board to continue to support and offer gun shows at the Ventura County Fair Grounds.