Black Guns Matter (BGM) is a grassroots organization founded by Maj Toure in 2016, born from the necessity to address the misconceptions, stigmas, and misinformation surrounding firearms in urban communities, particularly among African Americans. With a mission centered on education, safety, and advocacy, BGM aims to equip individuals with the knowledge and resources they need to responsibly exercise their Second Amendment rights.
The genesis of Black Guns Matter was rooted in Maj Toure’s realization that many people in urban areas, especially African Americans, were unaware of their legal rights regarding gun ownership. The media often portrays gun owners in these communities as criminals, neglecting the narrative of responsible gun ownership for self-defense and community protection. Toure, recognizing the gap in education and representation, sought to create a platform that would not only educate but also empower communities to take charge of their safety.
One of the key initiatives of Black Guns Matter is its educational outreach. The organization has traveled across the country, hosting workshops and classes in cities often burdened with the strictest gun laws. These sessions are offered free of charge, made possible through voluntary donations and people paying it forward to spread a message of freedom, safety, and autonomy. These classes cover firearm safety, conflict resolution, and the legal aspects of gun ownership, designed to dispel myths about guns, address fears, and promote safe practices. By providing access to proper training and information, BGM helps individuals understand the responsibilities that come with gun ownership, reducing the likelihood of negligence and violence.
Black Guns Matter’s impact has reached national recognition. Maj Toure was featured on the cover of Recoil Magazine in 2021, highlighting his influence and the significance of BGM’s work. The organization has also been featured in major media outlets like Business Insider, Fox News, C-Span, Vice News, Revolt TV, and NY Times Magazine, further amplifying its message.
BGM emphasizes the importance of the Second Amendment as a fundamental right that should be accessible to all Americans, regardless of race or socioeconomic background. The organization advocates for responsible gun ownership as a means of self-defense, particularly in communities where residents may feel underserved or neglected by traditional law enforcement. Toure and his team argue that the right to bear arms is essential for personal and community protection, especially in areas with high crime rates. Notably, Black Guns Matter was cited in the historic Supreme court case, New York State Rifle & Pistol Association Inc. v. Bruen, a testament to the organization's influence in the ongoing conversation around gun rights.
In addition to education, Black Guns Matter engages in advocacy, working to challenge and reform gun laws that disproportionately affect minority communities. The organization highlights how certain regulations, such as stringent licensing requirements and high fees, can serve as barriers to legal gun ownership for those in lower-income areas. BGM strives to ensure that gun rights are preserved for all citizens, not just a privileged few.
Black Guns Matter has gained significant attention and support for its unique approach to gun rights activism. It bridges the gap between urban communities and the broader gun rights movement, fostering a broader dialogue on the importance of self-defense and the Second Amendment. By empowering individuals through education and advocacy, Black Guns Matter is changing the narrative around firearms in urban America and ensuring that more people can exercise their rights safely and responsibly.
