GJ rally supports gun ownership

Encouraged to open carry, hundreds of people gathered across the nation to rally against stricter gun control measures.

The lawn outside the old county courthouse was packed on Saturday with people voicing support for gun ownership.

Those involved aim to show state leaders that there are law-abiding citizens who want to safeguard the second amendment of the constitution.

Travis Kelly says, "I’m not willing to see any more of our constitutional rights restricted."

Jim Anderson says, "Without the second amendment, I’m afraid this country would be like any other country in the world. It would be taken over, run over, and we wouldn't have any rights."

While most of the people at the rally can understand the criticism and opposition to their beliefs, they stand by their right to gun ownership.

"The vast majority of people are law abiding, respectful folks that care about their neighbors and are not wishing to do harm to others," David Cox, with Mesa County Patriots, said.

There are several bills being discussed by state lawmakers following the recent tragedies and massacres.

Jared Wright, House District 54's representative, is backing one bill that would allow teachers with concealed permits to be armed and act as security officers in schools.

"They’re in the classroom, they're teaching our kids,” Wright said. “If anything is to happen and we have one of these mad men in our community, they have the option to immediately respond and protect our children."

Mother of four, Rebecca Parks, supports that idea.

"It’ll neutralize the issue right there, with in the first five minutes, instead of waiting ten to fifteen," Parks said.

She also wants her kids to have the same gun rights that we have currently.  Parks says adding stronger restrictions only hurts those who are following the laws to begin with.

Others at the rally agree.

"We've got to take a stand somewhere," Anderson said.