Letter: Prepare to protect schools with force

I am heartbroken over the evil that has overcome Uvalde, Texas. And I, as part of Lake County, am outraged that our system has continued to fail us. Over the last 20 years, we've taught kids to hide, protect and wait for help. More must be done.

Gun-free zones are dangerous and it is time to protect schools like we protect airports, hospitals, courthouses and banks and we must stop threats with equal or greater force. I support the Second Amendment and believe that education is the key to gun safety, not legislation. In an era of increased crime, reduced funding for police and long response times - I must be my own first responder to protect myself, my family and my community, which is why I carry a firearm.

The evil in Uvalde was not caused by a gun, it was caused by a broken system that continues to push paper, policies and legislation versus solving the root issue. We must heal the pain in our communities, strengthen families and improve economic opportunities. Most importantly, it is time to fund meaningful programs that address mental health, safety and firearm awareness and training.

Lori A. Blackwell

Illinois Director DC Project