President Gervasi Signs Letter Regarding Gun Safety

Dr. Robert GervasiQuincy University President Robert Gervasi has joined more than 170 other college and university presidents in signing an open letter regarding gun safety legislation.

Entitled "An Open Letter to Our Nation's Policy Leaders," the letter calls on the nation's leaders to take action against gun violence. "As educators and parents, we come together to ask our elected representatives to act collectively on behalf of our children by enacting rational gun safety measures," it says.

Released by a Presidents Lawrence M. Schall of Oglethorpe University and Elizabeth Kiss of Agnes Scott College, both in Atlanta, the letter encourages other college and university presidents to join the effort.

President Gervasi said, "While we respect the Second Amendment, more importantly we respect the right to life--especially the lives of innocents. When rights conflict, then reasonable people need to find reasonable compromises."

"The tragedy in Connecticut is the latest of many that compel us to advocate for sensible strategies to reduce gun violence in our society. The Open Letter does just that, and all citizens, especially legislators, should consider its suggestions."

The effort was started by Dr. Schall and joined shortly thereafter by Dr. Kiss. The support was gathered in just a few days and the numbers continue to grow.

Dr. Schall said, "We are parents and grandparents first, but we are also educators of America's children. Our country was devastated by the recent events in Connecticut, yet the murder rate by guns in this country has been at an unconscionable level for a very long time. I just think everyone now realizes it is time to do what we can to try to reverse this tragic trend. We all know the answer is not simple and that no single action will accomplish that goal, but that cannot be a reason for inaction."