Black society and gun violence
In the United States, firearms are a contentious issue, with many people arguing for stricter gun control while others argue that the right to bear arms is an essential part of their way of life. However, what is often left out of this debate is the way that guns impact different communities within the US. In particular, guns have a significant impact on black society.
The high rates of gun violence in black communities can be traced back to a number of factors, including historical factors such as slavery and segregation as well as current socio-economic factors such as poverty and racism.
The History of Gun Violence in Black Communities
In America, gun violence is often racialized. When people think of gun violence, they automatically think of black men. This is because black men are more likely to be the victims and perpetrators of gun violence. In 2015, black men made up 6% of the population but were responsible for 71% of gun homicides. While it is true that black men are more likely to be involved in gun violence, it is important to understand the history and context behind this issue.
Gun violence in black communities can be traced back to the days of slavery. During slavery, blacks were not allowed to own guns. This was because slave owners knew that if blacks had guns, they would be able to rebel and fight for their freedom. After slavery ended, things did not get much better for blacks. They were still subjected to discrimination and violence at the hands of whites.
The socio-economic factors of gun violence in black communities
It is no secret that gun violence is a problem in black communities. But what are the socioeconomic factors that contribute to this problem?
One factor is poverty. According to the National Center for Children in Poverty, 38% of black children live in poverty, compared to 14% of white children. This economic disadvantage can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair, which can in turn lead to violence.
Another factor is poor education. In 2015, only 19% of black high school students graduated on time, compared to 67% of white students. This educational disparity can make it difficult for black Americans to find good jobs, which can again lead to desperation and violence.
Racism also plays a role in gun violence in black communities.
The psychological impact of gun violence in black communities
In the United States, gun violence is a widespread problem. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were more than 11,000 gun-related homicides in 2016 alone. And while gun violence affects all communities across the country, it disproportionately impacts black communities.
One of the main reasons for this disparity is the fact that black Americans are more likely to live in areas with high levels of poverty and crime. Studies have shown that people who live in these areas are more likely to be exposed to violence, which can lead to increased anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
What’s more, gun violence can have a ripple effect on an entire community. When someone is shot, their family and friends are also affected by the trauma. 
The physical impact of gun violence in black communities
In recent years, the number of black Americans killed by gun violence has been on the rise. While the overall number of homicides in the U.S. has decreased since the early 1990s, the number of black homicide victims has actually increased. In fact, according to a report from the Pew Research Center, between 1993 and 2010, the homicide rate for black Americans was more than twice that of whites.
Gun violence takes a particularly heavy toll on black communities. In addition to the loss of life, gun violence can also lead to physical injuries and long-term health problems for survivors. It can also damage property and disrupt families and neighbourhoods.
The physical impact of gun violence is just one way it harms black communities. Gun violence also takes an emotional toll on those who witness it or are affected by it.
In conclusion, it is evident that gun violence takes a significant toll on black society. The high rates of homicide and suicide among black Americans are particularly alarming, and the pervasive fear of gun violence has a detrimental effect on the mental health of black communities. While there are many factors that contribute to gun violence, it is clear that the easy availability of firearms plays a major role. Stricter gun control measures would likely have a positive impact on black society, reducing the number of deaths and injuries caused by guns.
Submitted by ADE for Naijatipsland
