The Right to Defend: Why Gun Rights Still Matter 25 Years Later

It’s been a quarter of a century since the so-called “Million Mom March” tried to reshape the conversation around firearms in America. This event, often lauded by mainstream media, was designed to push for stricter gun-control laws under the guise of protecting children and reducing gun violence. But the heart of the matter remains: gun rights still matter, and in today’s political climate, even more so. At Fortress Firearms Training in Fountain Inn, South Carolina, we strongly believe in empowering responsible citizens through education and practical firearms instruction to preserve their Second Amendment rights.

Gun Control’s False Promises

The Million Mom March claimed to speak for all mothers—calling for tougher gun laws in the name of safety. But let’s be clear: legislation that limits the rights of law-abiding gun owners does not deter criminals. Criminals, by definition, do not adhere to laws. With every new bill aimed at disarming citizens, we don’t get safer communities—we get less empowered citizens.

History has shown us that gun-control advocates often promote legislation that is reactive rather than effective. Despite 25 years of policy advocacy, cities with the most stringent gun laws—Chicago, Baltimore, Los Angeles—continue to be plagued by persistent violence. This isn’t a policy issue; it’s a rights issue. Restrictions on guns don’t make us safer. Training, awareness, and responsible ownership do.

The Importance of Firearms Training

At Fortress Firearms Training, we emphasize not just owning a firearm, but knowing how to use it safely and effectively. As South Carolina’s trusted firearms training center, we provide a variety of courses for all skill levels. Our curriculum covers:

• South Carolina concealed weapons permit (CWP) training
• Defensive pistol and rifle courses
• Beginner firearm safety classes
• Women-specific shooting instruction

The goal isn’t just to put a gun in your hand—it’s about creating a responsible, informed, and prepared individual. In a society where law enforcement response times may vary and personal protection can’t be outsourced, every citizen has a duty to themselves and their loved ones to be ready.

Million Mom March 25 Years Later: Gun Rights Still Matter

The original Million Mom March took place in 2000, mobilized by groups like the Brady Campaign. Their aim was to platform gun violence as a public health epidemic and to guilt the nation into tighter legislation. While their intentions may seem noble on the surface, these movements often ignore a crucial point: the core of liberty is self-preservation.

Over the past 25 years, Americans have not turned away from their firearms—they’ve embraced them more. According to the National Shooting Sports Foundation, millions of Americans became first-time gun owners between 2020 and 2023, including a significant increase among women and minorities. Why? Because in times of uncertainty, Americans instinctively reach for empowerment, not more bureaucracy.

Misplaced Advocacy Hurts the Law-Abiding

The problem with marches like the Million Mom March is that they often paint all gun owners with a sinister brush. They equate responsible ownership with criminal misuse. That kind of thinking is not only misguided but dangerously divisive. Instead of uniting communities across values like responsibility, safety, and freedom, they aim to rob individuals of their constitutional rights under the pretext of moral superiority.

And worse, such mindsets actively demonize organizations that train citizens on how to responsibly own and operate firearms. Fortress Firearms Training stands in direct opposition to this kind of narrow, politicized rhetoric. We believe in upholding the Constitution and protecting your right to defend yourself, your family, and your property.

A Call to Action for South Carolinians

The message couldn’t be clearer: Gun rights still matter, perhaps now more than ever. As national organizations push for expanded red-flag laws, ammunition restrictions, and firearm registries, your freedoms are at risk. Here in the Palmetto State, we’re proud of our southern heritage, our patriotism, and our unwavering respect for the Constitution.

We urge our fellow South Carolinians to invest in their own safety by learning from certified instructors. Fortress Firearms Training is proud to offer high-quality courses designed to prepare you both mentally and physically. Not everyone wants to carry a gun—but everyone should have the option, backed by the training to use it responsibly.

Why Training Is the Real Solution

Rather than stripping rights away in the name of false security, we should be equipping citizens with the tools and knowledge they need to handle firearms safely. Fortress Firearms Training provides practical solutions:

• Increase public safety through education, not limitation
• Build community confidence in self-protection
• Promote a culture of respect, discipline, and preparedness

At the end of the day, it’s not about politics—it’s about real people, real families, and real protection. Every South Carolinian deserves the right to feel secure in their home, on their property, and in their community.

The Second Amendment Is Not Up for Debate

The Second Amendment wasn’t written for hunters or sportsmen. It was enshrined into the Constitution to ensure that the American people would always have the means to safeguard their freedom. It was a warning to tyrants, foreign or domestic, that we are not a people easily subdued. That sacred right should never be diluted for political expediency or emotional appeal.

Million Mom March 25 Years Later: Gun Rights Still Matter is not just a statement of belief—it’s a call for vigilance. With anti-gun groups still marching and lobbying, the fight isn’t over, and your rights aren’t guaranteed. We must remain steadfast, prepared, and educated.

Stand with Fortress Firearms Training

At Fortress Firearms Training, we believe in the power of preparation and the promise of personal liberty. We invite you to join us on the range, in the classroom, and in the community.

If you’re ready to take the next step in responsible firearm ownership, visit our website, explore our course offerings, and make your commitment to your own safety—and to preserving the Second Amendment for generations to come.

Your rights are worth defending. Your freedom is worth protecting. And your training is where it all begins.