Gun owners in Illinois gathered at the state capitol to voice their discontent with the current gun laws and express optimism for favorable outcomes in the courts.
In January 2023, Governor J.B. Pritzker implemented a prohibition on over 170 semi-automatic firearms. This action has led to several federal lawsuits against the measure. On Thursday, in Springfield, the Illinois State Rifle Association organized the Illinois Gun Owner Lobby Day, during which Alan Gottlieb, representing the Second Amendment Foundation, delivered a keynote speech.
Gottlieb emphasized the significance of Illinois in influencing gun laws in other states during his speech at a convention.
Gottlieb explained that the politicians in Illinois continuously pass anti-gun laws, leading to court victories and decisions that set a precedent for other states.
According to him, advocates for gun control are employing language such as “assault weapon” and “weapons of war” to deliberately confuse the general public.
According to Gottlieb, the claim that pushes an anti-gun rights agenda is a false narrative. He firmly believes that the courts will not be swayed by such rhetoric but will instead base their decisions on the facts, the law, and the Constitution.
Hundreds of gun owners took to the streets of Springfield after gathering at a convention center, marching in a rally before they went on to lobby their legislators.
Among the various slogans, the crowd chanted, “Look down the road and what do I see, Illinois gun owners marching with me.”
State Representative John Cabello, a Republican from Machesney Park, spoke to the participants once they completed their march in the capital city. He emphasized to the crowd that while law enforcement aims to safeguard individuals, they cannot always be present. This is why he supports the implementation of a “stand your ground” law, as outlined in his proposed House Bill 5803.
Cabello emphasized that individuals should not be required to flee or face legal repercussions when defending themselves or their loved ones.