Is Gun Happy America Too Dangerous For Tourists?
Amnesty International has announced a stunning rebuke of the United States’ lackadaisical gun laws by issuing a travel advisory against the country. The London-based organization issued the warning following two consecutive mass shootings that left 31 people dead in the cities of Dayton, Ohio and El Paso, Texas. The incidents mark the 250th and 251st mass shootings in the United States this year.
Amnesty International joins the countries of Uruguay, Venezuela, Japan, Germany, Ireland, Canada and New Zealand with their advisory warning regarding American travel.
The following is an excerpt of the human rights advocates’ statement:Â
IF YOU DECIDE TO TRAVEL TO THE UNITED STATES:
– Be extra vigilant at all times and be wary of the ubiquity of firearms among the population.
– Avoid places where large numbers of people gather, especially culture events, places of worship, schools, and shopping malls.
– Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
“Travelers to the United States should remain cautious that the country does not adequately protect people’s right to be safe, regardless of who they might be. People in the United States cannot reasonably expect to be free from harm – a guarantee of not being shot is impossible,” said Ernest Coverson, Campaign Manager for the End Gun Violence Campaign at Amnesty International USA.
“Once again, it is chillingly clear that the U.S. government is unwilling to ensure protection against gun violence.”
President Trump said he would consider retaliating against countries that have issued the warning, despite them all having less gun violence than the United States. He added without much thought, “We are a very reciprocal nation with me as the head. When somebody does something negative to us in terms of a country, we do it to them.”
Eric has revolved in and out of passport controls for over 20 years. From his first archaeological field school in Belize to rural villages in Ethiopia and Buddhist temples in Laos, Eric has come smile to smile with all walks of life. A writer, photographer and entrepreneur, the LA native believes the power of connectivity and community is enriched through travel.