ATLANTA, Ga. – The topic has never been hotter. Gun control is an issue that is dividing our country's politicians and citizens. We talked to women on both sides of the debate and share their stories.
It was the crime that horrified our country, and the aftermath divided many.
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These women represent one side of the gun control debate. They're part of "Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America."
"We were all just affected at our core, and we had to act," said Kim Russell, a mother of two.
"One little child, one little baby getting shot is enough for me," said Marie Delus.
The group, which started in December, has 65,000 members and counting. Their goal: gather a million moms and convince lawmakers to ban weapons of more than ten rounds, require background checks, report sales of large quantities of ammunition, and limit the scope of concealed weapon laws at the state level.
"It's easier for you to get a gun than it is to buy Sudafed!" said Russell.
Their demands come as more and more women are now picking up guns for sport and for protection.
"I don't believe guns are the problem at all," said Alexis Thompson. "I believe it's the people."
"I need to physically be able to handle whatever comes at me, if it ever does," explained Jenni Jones Gooch.
Gun violence is the second leading cause of death for children between ages one and 19 in the U.S., but pro-gun organizations like the NRA say, "The only way to stop a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun," calling on Congress to put armed security in every school across the nation. It's a debate that will likely continue for years to come.
"Every social change that has happened in this country and in the world was precipitated by women having had enough," said Collette Martin.