A portrait of gun owners in America is a lot like a portrait of Americans as a whole – diverse. Some gun owners hunt, some are collectors, and others seek a means of self-defense.
But in the wake of the Newtown shooting, many Americans are wondering if our gun culture at large is to blame for such unthinkable violence, and why people choose to arm themselves in the first place.
Kyle Cassidy is a photographer and author of “Armed America: Portraits of Gun Owners in Their Homes.” He crossed the country three times asking Americans, “Why do you own a gun?” Michael Smith is a gun owner profiled in the book.
At The World, we believe strongly that human-centered journalism is at the heart of an informed public and a strong democracy. We see democracy and journalism as two sides of the same coin. If you care about one, it is imperative to care about the other.
Every day, our nonprofit newsroom seeks to inform and empower listeners and hold the powerful accountable. Neither would be possible without the support of listeners like you. If you believe in our work, will you give today? We need your help now more than ever!