School Violence Expert on the Impact of the March to End Gun Violence

Ellen deLara, a Syracuse University associate professor emerita of social work, is available to discuss issues around school violence and school shootings. She sent along some comments after this weekend’s march to end gun violence as well as the issue that Remington gun manufacturer is filing for bankruptcy.

“The sale of guns from Remington has been on the decline particularly since the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary. The perpetrator used an AR-15 purchased from Remington. Remington has seen swings in sales just like the rest of the gun industry. Filing for bankruptcy has to do with its own management,” says deLara. “It has nothing to do with the student-led March for Our Lives. Some gun supporters may put these two events together as a fear tactic to rile up their conservative base. In actuality, gun sales are high when Democrats are in power and low when Republics hold the reins. When Republics are in control, gun advocates don’t feel their right to obtain a gun will be withheld.”

“The March for Our Lives points out that the majority of Americans are in favor of some limitations on the purchase of guns. This is a direct threat to the NRA. Students state they will vote out politicians who are indebted to gun lobbies. Americans have to decide: will they finally take responsibility to protect children.”

deLara is available to speak with members of the media about the issue of school violence and shootings. Please contact Ellen James Mbuqe at ejmbuqe@syr.edu or 315.443.1897.