Letters: May 30, 2005

(5 of 5)

Gloucester, Mass.

Confronting a Threat

Michelle Cottle was misguided in her Essay "Shoot first, Regret Legislation Later" [May 9], on Florida's new "Stand Your Ground" law, which allows citizens to use armed self-defense. I fully support my state's strong stance against criminals. The new law is geared toward protecting yourself if you feel threatened. It doesn't give you carte blanche to pull out a gun if someone threatens you with fists. Ultimately, this law could prevent crime. I am reserving my opinion on whether it is successful until I see whether it results in any unnecessary deaths. I suggest that others do the same.

STACEY KROTO

Gainesville, Fla.

Legislation that expands the right to use firearms is a growing threat to our domestic safety. Cottle describes the Florida law as allowing a person under attack to "meet force with force, including deadly force." This law sends the message that Americans can't trust one another and that it's every man for himself in this country. We already have enough anxiety from the growing threat of terrorism. Having to worry about unfriendly neighbors who own guns is the last thing Americans need.

MAREK MERY

New York City

Cottle seems to think that criminals have more rights than an individual defending his person and property. The gun-control crowd claims that a Wild West shootout will break out if people have the right to carry a firearm. But if the government cannot protect its citizens, then they have every right to defend themselves. When confronted by a criminal, the law-abiding citizen should not be required to run-with the possibility of getting a bullet in the back.

GENE EDGE

Hayward, Calif.

Girls Skate Too

In his interview with TIME, skateboard champion Tony Hawk did a disservice to young women everywhere when he noted that his arena tour showcasing the stars of skateboarding is "one of the few events dads and sons can equally enjoy" [May 9]. What, girls don't skateboard? In his offhand statement, Hawk reveals the prevailing mentality: there are places where girls belong and places where they do not. Stop the brainwashing of young girls!

SHELLY RILEY

Steamboat Springs, Colo.