The Supreme Court recently heard arguments about a case concerning whether individuals have a right to bear arms outside of the home. The issue of gun control has long been an issue that Americans of various political persuasions have been passionate about. The Court’s decision in this case will surely have a large impact on laws across the country.

Those who argue that Americans have a right to bear arms in public contend that to do so is guaranteed by the Second Amendment. They argue that if an individual has the right to bear arms—as the Court ruled in District of Columbia v. Heller—then this should also apply to bearing arms in public. They claim that while this right should be limited to some extent, just like First Amendment rights are, the burden should be on the government to make a strong argument for why it can’t be exercised in certain arenas.

Those who argue that Americans do not have a right to bear arms in public contend that it is not a right protected by the Second Amendment. They argue that the Court incorrectly ruled in District of Columbia v. Heller, and since individuals don’t even have a right to bear arms, they certainly don’t have the right to do so in public areas. They claim that the government does not need to make a compelling case to limit the carrying of firearms in public since guns in public areas pose a general threat to the safety of society.

So, what do you think? Do Americans Have a Right to Bear Arms in Public? Students may answer Yes, they do; No, they do not; or a nuanced answer in-between!

---

Note: Ideal Think the Vote responses include the following:

• Address the question asked in a thoughtful and meaningful manner
• Use cited facts and constitutional arguments when appropriate to support their answers
• Are expressed in cohesive sentences and are free of distracting spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors
• They address counter-arguments and opposing concerns in a respectful manner
• They organize their answer in a manner that flows logically and reads clearly

---

JOIN THE DEBATE BELOW FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A $1,000 CASH SCHOLARSHIP!

For this question, BRI will be giving away two $25 gift cards, one to each person providing the best defense of each side of the debate. Both students will also win BRI swag. Each student winner will also be entered for a chance to win a grand prize of a $1,000 cash scholarship. Additionally, the referring teachers for both students will each win a $25 gift card and BRI swag.

This question will run from 11/08/21 to 11/15/21, so be sure to submit your answers in time to be considered for our prizes!

(For rules/regulations click HERE)