The Great Gun Debate, As Seen By Real Women (With Real Weapons)

For Cassard, the politics of gun ownership are far removed from her own experience. Though she defines herself as "fairly neutral" on the issue, she calls more rigorous background checks a "no-brainer." She also acknowledges — and though it might not sound pretty, we think it rings true given the way gender roles are constructed in American society — that for women, "owning a gun tends to be more about safety (or in some cases fashion) and personal protection than anything else. I think it is a less natural thing for a woman to own a gun because we are not typically in the 'protector' role." And, while she does feel "somewhat abnormal" as a woman with a gun, she also sees herself as "ahead of the curve, like I'm taking positive, proactive steps to protect against potentially harmful situations."
