Firearms Owners Against Crime
Institute for Legal, Legislative and Educational Action
Institute for Legal, Legislative and Educational Action
When I was a kid, U.S. Surgeon General C. Everett Koop put warning labels on packs of cigarettes. The evidence at the time, and subsequent “science” showed us that smoking cigarettes can lead to many health problems, cancer being one of them. Cancer can kill you.
When C. Everett Koop died in 2013 he was lauded as a “rock star” Surgeon General because of his many works including reducing smoking rates and battling AIDS. He was deeply religious and spoke of respecting individual American rights.
“The American ideal is not that we all agree with each other, or even like each other, every minute of the day. It is rather that we will respect each other's rights, especially the right to be different, and that, at the end of the day, we will understand that we are one people, one country, and one community, and that our well-being is inextricably bound up with the well-being of each and every one of our fellow citizens.”
On June 25th, current U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy declared that we have a health crisis. Might it be fentanyl that is being brought over our open southern border? Might is be medieval illnesses showing up in public homelessness encampments in our democratically controlled cities? Maybe it is the thousands of Americans killed every year by drunk drivers? What about the thousands of Americans that die every year due to distracted drivers? Perhaps it is (as we approach the 2024 general election) a new variant of Covid?
NOPE!
U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy says we have a moral crisis that demands immediate and decisive action. He said,
“Today, for the first time in the history of our office, I am issuing a Surgeon General’s Advisory on firearm violence. It outlines the urgent threat firearm violence poses to the health and well-being of our country. As a doctor, I’ve seen the consequences of firearm violence up close and the lives of the patients that cared for over the years. These are moms and dads, sons and daughters, all of whom were robbed of their physical and mental health by senseless acts of violence.”
Let’s unpack some of this statement.
Is knife, vehicle, fist, sexual, bludgeon, or chemical violence less prolific or more palatable? That would be his implication, as he specifies “firearm violence”. I guess moms, dads, sons and daughters are impacted less when their loved ones are assaulted or killed by other means. I submit that perhaps the real crisis is not firearm violence, the real problem is violent criminals that commit violent acts.
Well hang on, he also said,
“Fifty-four percent of adults in America report that they or family members have experienced a firearm-related incident, whether they’ve been personally threatened with or injured by a firearm, lost a family member, witnessed a shooting, or shot a firearm in self-defense”.
“Witnessed a shooting”?
All of us have witnessed countless acts of violence in the movies and television. As a matter of fact, many of the prominent Biden Regime supports in Hollywood have committed countless atrocities on film. But I guess pretend violence is OK or he would be warning of a “movie violence” crisis.
No hold on a minute…. what ELSE did he say?
“……or shot a firearm in self-defense”.
He implies that defensive gun uses are a part of the “crisis”.
Defensive gun usages are a means to stop criminals from harming law-abiding citizens or otherwise they would not be classified as defensive gun uses.
Even the CDC states a defensive gun use is “generally defined as the use of a firearm to protect and defend oneself, family, other people, and/or property against crime or victimization.”
Who is the Dr. Murthy protecting when he is lumping defensive gun use in with the “crisis”.
Clearly his issue is not with violent criminals doing violent things to innocent people, he takes issue with an inanimate object… ‘the gun’. Maybe the health crisis is hoplophobia.
What about the thousands of moms, dads, sons and daughters that use firearms every day to protect themselves and those that they love? I guess according to the Surgeon General, they are the problem too.
But hey, gotta give the Biden administration credit for being consistent with their “narrative”. Once more we have YET ANOTHER politically motivated government agency hell bent on the disarmament of law-abiding Americans.
We have seen throughout the Biden regime, the use of “science” to justify shitloads of tyranny. Where does the Surgeon General get HIS “science” from to support his landmark advisory on firearm violence?
When you look at their data closer, you will often see he lumps ALL gun uses together. Defensive gun uses are added in with gang related crimes, police actions, suicide, criminal homicide and other assaults with firearms. Where he charts “mass shootings” he uses the “broader” definition from the GVA (Gun Violence Archive).
The GVA is notorious for skewing data for a political purpose. FOAC-ILLEA board member Stephen LaSpina wrote about this in a “Firearms and Freedom” Blog post last year. The day after the Surgeon General published his politically motivate advisory, Dr. John Lott published an article exposing the falsehoods of the “data”. It was called, “The continued false claim that firearms are the leading cause of death for children or teens, now from the U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy”.
How can we call into question information provided by the government? The government always tells the truth and has the best interests of “the People” in mind, right?
"If you like the plan you have, you can keep it. If you like the doctor you have, you can keep your doctor, too. The only change you’ll see are falling costs as our reforms take hold."
- President Barack Hussein Obama
“The Second Amendment, from the day it was passed, limited the type of people who could own a gun and what type of weapon you could own.”
"folks need to understand that the president (Biden) passes a cognitive test every day."
- White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre
“We have to pass the bill so that you can find out what is in it.”
“We try to get trusted messengers out there and try and get this away from being an ideological or political statement, get back into the realm of pure public health, and try to convince people.”
“I did not have sexual relations with that woman”.
“Firearm violence has become the number one cause of death among children and adolescents, more than car accidents or drug overdoses.”
-U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy
Do YOU trust the government?
So, what is their endgame?
Clearly the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is marching lock step with the administration and controlling party to facilitate to complete ban of firearms. Prior anti-gun propaganda holds the law-abiding gun owner responsible for the actions of criminals. This new advisory is a clarification. It confirms that they truly want to disarm ALL Americans and they are using ALL means necessary to circumvent the Bill of Rights.
With that said, there is ONE thing Murthy says that I agree with.
“All of us, regardless of our background or beliefs, want to live in a world that is safe for us and our children.”
I for one will do my part to help ensure the safety of the world by taking on the responsibility to be my own family first responder. I encourage that you too exercise your God given natural born right to keep and bear arms in defense of yourself and your family. It is very clear that government has no interest in protecting anyone from anything… only achieving total control through fear, feigning the moral high ground, fear, threats, fear, and all out tyranny.
FOAC-Institute “East Coast” CommitteeFOAC-Institute Board Member, Stephen LaSpina has been appointed chairman of the FOAC-Institute Eastern PA Action Committee. He will be heading efforts to spread awareness, grow the membership, and organize folks to help promote the mission FOAC-ILLEA east of the Alleghenies.
If you would like to be added to the list of potential volunteers, please email Stephen and let him know your availability and talents that you would like to bring to the cause. Email Stephen by CLICKING HERE.
The Shining City on the Hillby George Emanuel FOAC-ILLEA Member
The United States Constitution, the foundational document crafted by our nation’s forefathers, is the cornerstone of American governance, and the American Dream. It delineates the scope of government authority through a system of “enumerated powers.” This means that the Constitution explicitly outlines what the government can do, thus restraining it from asserting control over matters not expressly granted to it. Designed in such a way that the People by their vote would keep it in check.
Antonin Scalia, a distinguished figure in American jurisprudence, embodied a steadfast commitment to these principles. His deliberations and opinions consistently emphasized the supreme importance of the individual. In his writings and public speeches, Scalia tirelessly advocated for the idea that the state exists to serve its citizens, rather than the other way around. The concept of individual sovereignty is evident throughout his time on the bench.
The essence of Scalia’s legal legacy underscores his determination that the state should not subjugate the individual but should seek their consent. However, it is disheartening to acknowledge that over time, so many citizens have abdicated their responsibilities, allowing the nation to drift from its original ideals.
The metaphorical “shining city on the hill,” once evoked to describe the United States, has lost its luster. Instead of a beacon of hope and progress, it has, for many, become a festering sore on the nation’s landscape. The erosion of the values and principles that once defined the nation is evident. Freedom, a cherished American ideal, has been exploited and abused, leading to an era where moral values are derided. In a society once known for its decency, we now witness the proliferation of intolerance and bigotry.
“For the Common good,” a term that once resonated as a noble aspiration, has seemingly devolved into a culture of self-interest. It’s no longer a question of what one can contribute to society but rather, what society can offer to the individual. This shift in perspective has brought about a significant transformation in the American social fabric. It is being torn and tattered by these conflicting philosophies.
In times of adversity, the American people have been renowned for their resilience. When confronted with challenges, they gritted their teeth, embraced the burden, and worked together to overcome obstacles. Today, however, a different ethos seems to prevail. Phrases like “safe spaces” and “no free speech zones” have emerged, reflecting a desire for comfort and insulation from differing opinions. “Gender confusion” underscores the evolving complexities of identity, while the “entitlement mentality” implies a growing expectation of unearned rewards. We seem to have lost sight of the fact that ‘Freedom isn’t Free. It can only thrive however when shepherds, and not the wolves, stand watch over the flock.
Even in the realm of military leadership, there appears to be a perceptible shift. Traditional notions of masculinity and femininity have been replaced with a ‘nuanced’ understanding of gender. These changes reflect the evolving nature of society and are a reflection of broader cultural shifts. Recruiting goals are not being met, and the quality of our Armed Forces is declining. Social experimentation has infected even this once proud and stalwart Bastian of liberty and freedom. And those who gave so much that we should come so far are surely restless in their final resting place.
In summary, the principles enshrined in the Constitution and upheld by figures like Antonin Scalia underscore the importance of individual sovereignty and the role of the state in serving the people. However, the evolving cultural landscape and shifting societal values have led to a departure from these ideals. Society needs to engage in a thoughtful and honest reflection on these changes and consider their implications for the nation’s future. The challenge lies in finding a balance between evolving cultural norms and preserving the fundamental values that have long defined the American identity.
Karl Marx in his formulation of the Communist Manifesto failed to account for the greed inherent in man, Our Founders may have given us a Republic, but it seems as though we have not accounted for how far some will go with the intention that greed should triumph.
We need to steel ourselves against the current onslaught on our history and traditions. They inform us as to whence we came, and they will direct our future on a complimentary path if we will but preserve and obey the lessons they have to teach.
We will have the opportunity this November to continue down the path we are on to become a third-world banana republic, or to begin the process of cleaning up that “shining city on the hill”. The one that was once shown so brightly as a beacon of hope amidst the turmoil and confusion that is the world.
We have during our long and proud history been able to bring freedom to other countries, now it is the time when we must restore it to our own.
“Posterity! You will never know, how much it cost the present Generation, to preserve your Freedom! I hope you will make a good Use of it. If you do not, I shall repent in Heaven, that I ever took half the Pains to preserve it.”
-John Adams, April 26. 1777
The choice is now ours. What will we leave to “Our” posterity? Let’s not give John Adams cause for regret!
Let us remount the charge and take that damn hill!
A Declaration of Independence From Joe Biden
Why Were Guns Absent During Presidential Debate?
The Crucial Role of Firearm Safety Education for Youth
Looking at the 'Numbers' Behind 'Public Health Emergency'
GOP's 'Response' To Murthy Absolutely Perfect
Protecting Your Ammo: Benefits of Silica Gel Packs + Other Storage Tips
‘Public health’ authoritarianism comes to the gun control debate
DOJ Seeks SCOTUS Guidance on Gun Rights for Felons
After Rahimi, What's Next for the Supreme Court and the Second Amendment?
In Dissent, Thomas Warns Rahimi Decision 'Puts at Risk' 2A Rights of More Americans
Supreme Court Upholds Ban on Guns for People Under Domestic Restraining Orders
Click here to register for the August 7th Event
FOAC-Institute presents Concealed Carry Seminars with Pro-Liberty Elected Officials, works with County Sheriffs at Satellite License to Carry Events, provides information tables at Gun Shows, and organizes for Pro-2A Rallies, gun bashes, and special events. To see the most up-to-date schedule of FOAC-Institute events and meetings, CLICK HERE.
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FOAC-Institute ResourcesTo read the Blog Posts from FOAC-Institute President Jim Stoker Click Here
To read the Blog Posts from FOAC-Institute VP Klint Macro Click Here
To Read the Blog Posts from FOAC-Institute Board Member Stephen LaSpina Click Here
To Read past editions of the FOAC-Institute Newsletter Click Here
The Declaration of IndependenceAn article by Ah1Tom originally published in the Project Appleseed Newsletter 6/27/24
"When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one People to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation."
To continue reading the article click here
FOAC-Institute PA Gun Law Seminar with Rep. Ryan Warner
at Star Junction Gun Club in Fayette, County
As I have grown older, I look upon Independence Day with similar reverence as I do for Christmas or Easter. Not same… but similar. Being a student of history and knowing fully well how our actions, great and small, often result with significant consequences, I look at the men who signed their names on that document and I empathize with their predicament.
As adults, we all grow complacent within our routines. We become creatures of habit, justify poor behavior and often defend what we know, even if we know it not to be good. Many folks understand what the ultimate solution to their problem is, but rather than do the hard things to obtain it, would rather keep doing what they are doing and tread water… because it is the path of least resistance. The path of least resistance is easier, at least in the short term.
The men who adopted and signed the Declaration of Independence truly sealed their fates, the fate of their families, and the fate of this country. There is controversy over what each of these men endured after the signing, but, rest assured, they knew the risk they were taking when they openly rebelled against the King. Putting it on paper, however guaranteed a strong response from the King. What is that old saying? “If it ain’t written down, it didn’t happen”? Well, THEY wrote it down.
A few years ago, my son and I visited the National Archives, and we had the honor to see the Declaration with our own eyes. The elegance by which Jefferson wrote of grievance, logic, reason, and ultimate rebellion places this document amongst the finest written works of all time. However, recognizing Jefferson’s deliberate circumspection behind every word, every syllable, and every quill stroke is breathtaking.
As the line progressed at the Archives, ultimately, we were able to step up to the glass and stand before the document. It was in a lowly lit display area and its words were tragically faded by time. We gazed upon it. Knowing what it is, what it was, what it continues to be, and what it truly stands for… I was overwhelmed. As my tears hit the protective glass, all I could manage to say to Augie was, “Boy, that’s something.”
If you visit the National Archives website, you can sign the Declaration too. Before you hit the “sign” button the webpage offers a warning:
Are you sure you want to sign the Declaration of Independence?
If you had been a member of the Second Continental Congress in 1776, you were a rebel and considered a traitor by the King. You knew that a reward had been posted for the capture of certain prominent rebel leaders and the largest British armada ever assembled was just outside New York Harbor. Affixing your name to the document meant that you pledged your life, your fortune, and your sacred honor to the cause of freedom.
How many of us today would stick out our own necks and that of our progeny so publicly and completely? If ever we or our children are faced with such a dire choice, will we/they be able to do the hard things for the good of the People? Do we understand what a choice like that means?
May we exhaust all means to have our yearly revolutions at the ballot box. May we become active proponents of liberty and use our talents to promote each other’s individual rights.
Let’s not celebrate the 4th of July, let us celebrate Independence Day. Just like I recommend wishing folks Happy Hannukah and Merry Christmas instead of saying “Happy Holidays”, I recommend celebrating what the day is REALLY about… our American Independence.
Stay Armed and BE Well Regulated!
HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!
Yours In Liberty,
Klint Macro
FOAC-Institute VP
P.S.
Klint Macro’s Suggested Independence Day Watch List:
John Wayne's Tribute to America (a cavalcade of stars celebrating our amazing country)
John Adams (an extremely well-produced and reasonably historically correct mini-series)
The Patriot (an extremely well-produced amalgamation of mostly historic characters that makes you proud to be an American)
Gettysburg (let’s not forget what happened 86 years and 362 days after Independence Day)
FOAC-Institute is continuing to fight for the hearts and minds of our fellow Pennsylvanians to promote individual liberties and freedoms. We are steadfast and resolute and dedicated to protecting our Constitution and advancing the cause of the 2nd Amendment and Article 1 Section 21 of the PA Constitution.
FOAC-Institute’s educational efforts are expanding across the Commonwealth. FOAC-ILLEA volunteers are teaching more concealed carry classes each month and additional virtual education events are forthcoming.
FOAC-Institute is continuing to fight in the courts. Whether this means new litigation to challenge local tyrants, fight the bureaucrats that make it harder for Pennsylvanians to exercise their most basic rights, or the funding of amicus briefs to support others who are already involved in court battles, we are actively helping to establish case law that will help advance the cause of liberty.
FOAC-Institute volunteers research proposed legislation, consult with experts, and offer advice to elected officials about legislation as well as educate the public on the strength or folly of legislation that could have lasting positive or negative effects upon our liberty and the liberty of our children.
I urge you to help me spread the word about FOAC-Institute. Share this newsletter and the website with your sphere of influence. Get a fellow gun owner to join FOAC-Institute.
Contact your Legislators HERE.
Read previous newsletters HERE.
The FOAC-Institute website is a wealth of information. Track current legislation, contact legislators and elected officials, look up gun laws, read easy to understand synopsis’ on stand your ground, castle doctrine, and legal use of force. Keep up to date with current gun related news. There is all this and more on the FOAC-Institute website.
Get involved!
If you have read this entire newsletter and made it here to this statement… you are already interested and vested.
Donate your time, your talents, or your treasure. VOTE pro-2A and get your friends to vote pro-2A as well. Become a member and get your friends to become a member. If you are already a member, consider “upping your membership” to a higher level. Volunteer to help at the bash. Volunteer to join a committee to send emails, write letters, make phone calls… NOW IS THE TIME TO DO. DON’T PUT IT OFF. “We the People” have been sitting on the sidelines too long.
An Armed and Educated Citizenry is the true check and balance in our Constitutional Republic and the ultimate homeland security!