So many things are happening now it is literally stunning. We now use terms like “social distancing”, and we walk around wearing masks and gloves. When you go to the gun range, the first order of business is not to check your ammo count, but to “disinfect” your lane and wipe down everything you or your pistol will touch. This is the new “norm” for America and African American gun owners.

Some people for the first time are facing the reality of needing a gun for protection. Gun sales have skyrocketed and have been at record levels nationwide for weeks (2.5 million gun were sold in March). What is also noticeable is that in the midst of all this, there are millions of Americans who up until now, were solidly anti-gun. They even scolded those in society who purchased any type of firearm. Yet, these same individuals have now gone out and purchased guns because they need them for their safety.

It is amazing how individuals get “clarity” with the threat of social chaos, food shortages, and home invasions potentially on the horizon. The negative view of firearms was dispelled and replaced with a healthy dose of reality. They need to protect themselves and their families. These same Americans now see guns in a new light and a necessity in times of uncertainty. What I have seen in these past few weeks, again and again, were outspoken anti-gun citizens making the decision to purchase a pistol, rifle, or shotgun because of the reality on the streets–not some fractured theory based on bad guys behaving mercifully.

I want to say, “I told You so,” so I will say it. I told you so.

I have always believed that it is very easy to sit in an air-conditioned room on a university campus with catered food for the panel and theoretically discuss the evils of firearms, but that isn’t reality. We all know that guns–when used properly–are like any other tool in your home. You just have to know how and when to use it.

Additionally, what cannot be overlooked is the value and importance of the Second Amendment in this conversation. It is the equalizer for the average citizen. Without it, we are truly in harm’s way. That is why African Americans who have firearms need to support pro-gun legislation, understand the laws within their State, and–more importantly–vote.

Without the Second Amendment, none of us would be able to purchase a firearm to protect ourselves. As we are all finding out quickly, just having a theory isn’t reality.