[waxnrope]

I think that for me, one of the problems with this discussion are what one presupposes as innocent and law abiding. Historically, this position of what might be called rightness (and whiteness) those deemed to fit in this group and were either given tacit approval, legal approval, or permits, and belonged to group who wielded power over others. Those denied such permissions were "law breakers" and others who were deemed "at risk."
As a POC and butch, I was assaulted by self proclaimed REDNECKS on the Burnside Bridge in Portland, Oregon some years ago. As a health care professional without a criminal record, I was denied a permit to carry, despite this experience. I didn't really want to, but like many here, was frightened. A friend of a friend was on the Police force. He took me to a shooting range. Taught me safety and cleaning, then helped me bypass the prior denial to get my permit. I did buy a gun ... it was stolen@
! But I was both afraid about this and very glad.

Even though there have been occasions, for protection of self or material thongs (even my new kitchen sink wstill in the box was stolen), I never got another gun. I was really angered about the thefts, but realized that I didn't want to shoot some kid over a Friggin sink. Besides, Oakland PD being what it is (and if there were a reason to carry, they would be it ... for ME), I would likely be denied as a matter of course.

Sorry about the ramble.