At a press conference on October 23, 2024, Gun Owners Action League (GOAL) and the Civil Rights Coalition gathered at the Massachusetts State House, passionately rallying against the state’s recently enacted gun law, H.4885, also known as Chapter 135. With Toby Leary, Chairman of the Civil Rights Coalition, and Jim Wallace of GOAL leading the charge, the event served as a call to action to repeal what they consider an overreach infringing on the rights of Massachusetts residents.
Leary Kicks Off the Protest
Toby Leary opened the event by acknowledging the support received from various political groups, including both Republicans and Democrats. He emphasized the bipartisan nature of the opposition, noting that some Democratic lawmakers had risked their positions by voting against the controversial law. Leary expressed disappointment that such a fundamental issue as gun rights had become politicized, saying it should have been “settled law almost 250 years ago.”
A Historic Location for a Historic Message
Leary drew a strong parallel between the current struggle and the beginnings of American independence. Standing in Massachusetts, the birthplace of the American Revolution, he highlighted how citizens once fought to preserve their rights against government overreach. “Tonight’s Midnight Riders,” he declared, “are the Civil Rights Coalition, the Gun Owners Action League, and the nearly 100,000 people in Massachusetts who signed these petitions.” Leary’s rhetoric underscored the urgency felt by the rally’s organizers and supporters.
95,000 Signatures in a Grassroots Effort
In a monumental grassroots effort, GOAL and its allies gathered over 95,000 certified signatures in a matter of weeks to oppose Chapter 135. Leary proudly presented the petitions, which will be delivered to the Secretary of the Commonwealth. This impressive show of opposition is intended to send a clear message to lawmakers about the depth of resistance to the legislation.
Leary’s Challenge to Elected Officials
During his address, Leary questioned the authority of Massachusetts officials in implementing laws that, he argued, infringe on citizens’ rights. He pointed out that such laws go against the Constitution, which should protect individuals’ right to bear arms. In his view, the Massachusetts legislature lacks the “constitutional authority to take away guns that are in common and ordinary use for lawful purposes,” and he warned that moving the “goalposts” in this way is an abuse of power.
Jim Wallace Joins the Rally
Jim Wallace, a leading voice in GOAL, took to the stage with a strong message about the perceived overreach of Chapter 135. Wallace has been active in Second Amendment advocacy for over 25 years, and he noted that the response to this law was unlike anything he had seen before. He recounted the legislative tactics used to push H.4885 through, including suspending standard procedures and silencing opposition.
Legislative Maneuvering Draws Criticism
Wallace criticized the legislative process that brought Chapter 135 into law, claiming it was marred by secrecy and rule-breaking. He described how the bill was initially delayed due to public opposition, only to be reintroduced in an expedited and covert manner. “They went dead quiet for three months,” Wallace explained, adding that lawmakers released the bill late one night and pushed it through the following day. This approach, he argued, undermines the democratic process.
Concerns for Law Enforcement and Local Businesses
Beyond the impact on citizens, Wallace highlighted the confusion this law has caused for law enforcement and gun retailers. He claimed that even state agencies are uncertain about how to implement the new regulations, describing the situation as “an historical event.” Wallace pointed out that some gun shop owners stand to lose up to 70% of their business, with significant impacts on local economies and public safety alike.
Civil Liberties at the Heart of the Protest
For Wallace and Leary, the rally goes beyond gun rights; it’s a defense of civil liberties. Leary called out Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, accusing her of “playing politics with people’s rights” and urging her to rescind the emergency preamble of Chapter 135. This would, he argued, allow the constitutional process to play out fully and give voters a direct say on the matter.
The Broader Effects of the Fight
The implications of Chapter 135 extend beyond Massachusetts, with gun rights advocates nationwide watching closely. If the grassroots opposition succeeds, it could set a precedent for challenging similar laws in other states. The rally’s organizers believe that pushing back against this legislation is about safeguarding not just gun rights but the democratic principles of individual choice and government accountability.
Legal Battles Ahead
The fight against Chapter 135 is far from over. According to Leary, the next step is the court system, where GOAL and its allies plan to challenge the law on multiple fronts. Wallace mentioned that they had been working with national partners to split the legal fight into sections, focusing on different aspects of the law, from training requirements to access to common firearms. This method, he explained, will allow them to address specific grievances while maintaining a comprehensive legal strategy.
Seeking Public Support for Long-Term Goals
With the possibility of a ballot initiative in 2026, the activists are calling on Massachusetts residents to support their cause. Leary stated that if the law remains in place, they will work tirelessly to educate the public on the issue for the next two years, preparing for a vote that could repeal Chapter 135. This extended timeline, he believes, will allow citizens to fully grasp the stakes involved and make an informed decision.
The Power of Grassroots Movements
The passionate opposition to Chapter 135 demonstrates the power of grassroots action in today’s political landscape. Leary and Wallace, along with thousands of Massachusetts residents, have shown that even in the face of significant obstacles, ordinary citizens can organize and make their voices heard. The rally was a testament to the belief that democracy works best when people actively participate, especially in issues that impact civil liberties.
Questions for the Future of Gun Rights
This movement raises thought-provoking questions about the future of gun rights in America. As more states introduce gun control measures, it will be interesting to see how public opinion shifts and whether the courts continue to play a decisive role in these debates. The Massachusetts rally reminds us that the conversation around gun rights is far from settled, and it’s likely to remain a contentious issue for years to come.
A former park ranger and wildlife conservationist, Lisa’s passion for survival started with her deep connection to nature. Raised on a small farm in northern Wisconsin, she learned how to grow her own food, raise livestock, and live off the land. Lisa writes about homesteading, natural remedies, and survival strategies. Whether it’s canning vegetables or setting up a rainwater harvesting system, Lisa’s goal is to help others live more sustainably and prepare for the unexpected.