I’ve seen man wave machete, knife fears real
Gov. Mike Dewine signed a law in June that shows once again how shortsighted Republican Ohio lawmakers can be.
The legislation blocks Ohio cities from “passing laws blocking citizens from carrying knives” by tacking on knives in its interpretation of the Second Amendment.
Many Ohioans, myself included, grew up in families where pocket knives were commonly carried as an important daily tool.
My grandfather would never have left the house without his pocket knife.
It was needed for a number of farming and household chores, including my many fond memories of grandpa helping me and my sisters release new Barbies and My Little Ponies from their plastic packaging on Christmas mornings.
Let me be clear: If the legislation – Senate Bill 156 – stopped short at pocket knives, I would not be writing this letter.
Instead, the law will allowfor swords, machetes, brass knuckles, etc., to be carried into public spaces such as malls, libraries, college campuses, etc. Now, you may be thinking “That sounds terrible, but nobody has a sword or a machete. This is just an overreaction!”
This is not an overreaction
I would reply that I have recently witnessed an individual repeatedly brandishing a machete over a period of several days in a public space where children and families were present.
Each time this individual returned, he verbally and physically threatened the staff members of the building.
This individual was likely experiencing a mental health crisis, which begs the question: When will Ohio lawmakers begin addressing the mental health crisis that is threatening to overwhelm our communities?
Ohio Republicans claim that Senate Bill 156 gives Ohio citizens a better chance to defend themselves, and that therefore, they are working to protect Ohioans. In reality, this bill puts Ohioans who work and use public spaces in further danger.
People with mental illness not helped
It also does nothing to help Ohioans who really need help: those suffering from mental illness. The 134th General Assembly has done nothing to reduce the stigma of mental illness, or increase access to mental health services. Instead, they have only added to the stress and disenchantment of public work.
In fairness, Senate Bill 156 does make an attempt to state that this bill refers to “legitimate uses of constitutionally protected arms.” This begs the question, however, as to what “legitimate” purpose do brass knuckles or machetes serve in a public setting?
If the argument is for purposes of self-defense, this would carry more weight only if there were more education about and clear assistance for those who are suffering from mental illness.
Erin Farmer was born and raised in rural Ohio, where she enjoyed 4-H and annual combine rides. She currently lives and works at a public library in Columbus.