Decades-Old Lawsuit Against the Gun Industry May Soon End
Ask students: What is the argument in the lawsuit against gun manufacturers? When did Gary, Indiana, file the lawsuit against the gun manufacturers?
Thirty years ago, Gary, Indiana, was declared the murder capital of the U.S. Following the example of other cities, Gary sued gun makers and sellers for their part in fueling the city’s violence. Gary’s case is now the last one still active as this industrial city works to get a handle on gun violence.
View the transcript of the story.
Time Markers
- Start of video to 1m:25s for an introduction to gun violence in Gary, Indiana
- 2m:58s to 5m:20s if you want to learn about the national lawsuit against firearm manufacturers
- 5m:21s to 6m:58s to learn about why the firearm industry is against the lawsuits
- 7m:45s to end to see how community members are supporting each other
Discussion Questions
- What is the argument in the lawsuit against gun manufacturers?
- When did Gary, Indiana, file the lawsuit against the gun manufacturers?
- Where can residents of Gary who've been directly affected by gun violence find resources and support ?
- Why do gun manufacturers and pro-gun advocates believe they are being unfairly targeted?
- How does the city of Gary hope to reduce gun violence through the lawsuit?
Focus Questions
How effective do you think Indiana's measures against gun violence are? Why is it difficult to pass legislation?
Media literacy: What programs or measures have been implemented in your city or state to attempt to reduce gun violence?
Extension Activity
Learn more about why more liberal and conservative states disagree on limiting firearm sales. This interview highlights the contrasting approaches to gun control and raises questions about further legal challenges.
Republished with permission from PBS NewsHour Classroom.
Addressing Gun Violence
Find free K-12 lesson plans and resources for educators, school staff and community members on gun laws, the second amendment, government debates and obstacles, gun violence, and action tools.
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