Virginia Tech

Why are we surprised when a tragedy like the one at Virginia Tech occurs? Unless we address the root problems of mental illness, our gun culture, the tolerance of hate speak and our sensationalized media these catastrophes will happen again and again.
Mental illness is still incredibly stigmatized and seen as a weakness of character instead of the medical condition it is. Treatment may be difficult to obtain due to shame, expensive therapy and medications as well as possibility and fear of being dropped by health insurance providers.
The National Rifle Association, founded in 1871, states its goal is to "promote and encourage rifle shooting on a scientific basis," The NRA may hide behind its facade of hunter education and its shooting sports youth programs; but they are partly responsible for the ‘science’ of 2007 in the US – an increase in the of number of guns, the glorified use of guns in entertainment and media, and the dubious honor of having one of the highest gun death rate in the world.
It is also our constitutional right to engage in free speech but when did we as a society start to tolerate the rantings of bigots, chauvinists and hate mongers? In a country where Imus can skip off with millions in his pocket and others seek rehab for their slurs, one wonders if personal responsibility exists anymore. Those who see themselves as weak and powerless engage in hate speak and they may, as we have seen, choose violence as a way to feel powerful.
Our media is increasingly blurring the line between news and entertainment. Our 24/7 coverage brings out the worst in reporters who broadcast speculation and trot out ‘experts’ no matter how removed from the subject they are. For the life of me I can’t figure out why this catastrophe was the lead story on Access Hollywood. The proliferation of tragedy as entertainment entices killers and copy cats with the chance to be famous and remembered.
MSNBC reports that colleges and universities are “beefing up threat assessment training, for faculty and staff as well as students.” If we don’t change our attitudes regarding mental illness, guns, hate speak and our media it will be necessary to train anyone who frequents the post office, Mc Donald’s, Luby’s, school campus or anywhere else in threat assessment.
I pray for peace for all victims of this tragedy.