John Legend Discusses Gun Control in Visit to Home State Ohio
John Legend, the popular singer, songwriter and philanthropist was born and raised in Springfield, Ohio. Over the weekend, Legend returned to his home state to help the region heal after the mass shooting in Dayton.
The artist preformed a special concert at Blind Bob’s Bar, which is located in the city’s Oregon District, where the shootings took place. Legend also spoke out against the violence and made a call for advanced gun reforms.
Legend also appeared at a news conference alongside Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley. He told reporters:
“My direct message to legislators, to the president, to all of them, is the [National Rifle Association] doesn’t represent America. How many more people have to be killed for us to realize that this isn’t working? If you claim to represent the interests of the American people, then you need to be doing your job in a way that makes everyone safer.”
The musician also asked his fans to help, “I sat down with the people of Dayton, OH and I’m inspired by their strength & resilience, but we must take action,” he tweeted. “Join me, Everytown and Moms Demand by calling your senators & demanding they vote on stronger gun safety laws.”
I sat down with the people of Dayton, OH and I’m inspired by their strength & resilience, but we must take action. Join me, @Everytown & @MomsDemand by calling your senators & demanding they vote on stronger gun safety laws: Text CHECKS to 644-33 or visit https://t.co/57YE9StqMf
— John Legend (@johnlegend) August 12, 2019
Legend has been a frequent burr in the side of the President. Following the El Paso and Dayton shootings, the singer said, “When we condemn the racist venom coming from the President’s mouth and point out the bigotry of his policies, it’s not an academic question, it’s not a political game, it’s about life and death. The President regularly inspires killers. He is a part of the problem.”