Tennessee gun control advocates want permit-less carry law repealed after 17 mass shootings nationwide in a week

A group of gun control advocates held a rally outside of Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee’s office Wednesday to express their desire for what they call common sense gun laws. They want a repeal of the law allowing people to carry guns without a license and for lawmakers to require stricter background checks.

The protest comes after six teens were hurt in a mass shooting in downtown Chattanooga over the weekend. Tennessee’s shooting followed the Buffalo supermarket shooting and the massacre at a Texas elementary school.

Nashville pastor and activist Ingrid McIntyre began the rally by reading the names of victims. “Neveah Alyssa Bravo, age 10. Jacklyn Jaylen Cazares, age 10…”

Placed by gun control advocates stuffed animals, backpacks, and roses lay at the entrance of the Governor’s Office.

With each name a stuffed animal, backpack or rose was laid at the entrance to the Governor’s office.

Nashville mother Shaundelle Brooks, who’s son was killed during the Antioch Waffle House shooting in 2018, says change needs to happen now.

“We call on our leaders to step up and do something,” Brooks said, noting that members of the U.S. Congress went on vacation while Canada put a freeze on handgun sales.

Shaundelle Brooks speaks to those in attendance about what changes she would like to see when it comes to gun reform.

Franklin Community Church Pastor Kevin Riggs delivered a letter signed by 50 pastors to the governor’s office with a list of demands. 

• Repeal the permit-less carry law that went into effect July 1, 2021.
• Pass a universal background check law that closes the gun show loophole.
• Call for a vote on SB 1807, also known as a red flag law.
• Ban semi-automatic assault weapons, armor piercing ammunition, and high-capacity magazines.
• Form a committee that includes clergy from all faiths to continue to work on common sense gun control regulations.

Pastor Kevin Riggs reads a letter addressed to Gov. Bill Lee requesting that changes be made regarding gun laws in the state.

A spokesperson for Gov. Lee tells WPLN that he is not considering firearm restrictions. But they say more school resource officers have been placed across the state under his tenure.