OFFICIAL Virginia 2A Lobby Day / 2A Rally Day - January 20, 2020 Information

[Ltdpilot]

Moderators, please move this to the best location for the most visibility as necessary. I will be updating it as things change. Please sticky!


For the latest information please go to https://www.vcdl.org/


Also this document is generally kept up to date:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HNetTtLzfzcshbdTcQBv6eOxzN-qXOd21uPGuedFDGM/edit


The rally facebook page is here:

https://tiny.cc/lobbyday2020


Sign up for alerts from the VCDL here:

https://www.vcdl.org/VA-ALERT



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Calling all pro-gun, second amendment supporters. The 2nd Amendment Sanctuary Resolution movement has only begun in Virginia but we have huge momentum. Now we must show up in large numbers in Richmond on January 20, 2020 to speak to our lawmakers about these draconian gun laws. Please attend, we need large numbers, if you cannot attend please see what else you can do to help! Spread the word!



Side note, this is not a protest, this is a rally and a chance to speak directly in person to your delegates and state senators. This day has a lot of significance and is our best chance to change minds and votes. The media will be there filming. PLEASE do not show up in tactical uniforms or open carrying rifles. Also, while I personally do not begrudge anyone with a Confederate flag, this day is NOT the day to show up with one. We do not need the media to have photos to match their incorrect talking points and characterizations. Thank you!



Isn’t Martin Luther King Day a Holiday?

Yes, it is a Federal Holiday but the Virginia General Assembly is in session and working.



I can't come to VCDL Lobby Day, how else can I help?

• Subscribe to the free VA-ALERT email and take action expeditiously any time we ask.

• Donate and encourage others to donate and join us.

• Take off work NOW for MLK day in 2021 so you don't have any excuse not to attend

• Make sure you vote on local and national elections



Do you have to be a VCDL member to come to VCDL Lobby Day?

No! We invite everyone to join us that believes in the fight for our Second Amendment rights! Family and friends are welcome too!



Can we carry?

We don’t tell you to carry or not, If you do, please do so legally and responsibly. If you do decide to carry your holstered handgun either open or concealed, you do need your permit to carry inside the general assembly building.



Is there a special entrance to those carrying with a CHP?

No. There used to be at the main GAB building, but in the temporary building there was not last year. If they add it this year, No backpacks or other bags allowed at this entrance as they don’t use walk-through magnetometers. Just wands. Show your ID, permit and point out (don’t touch) where on your body you are carrying.



What should I wear? Some wear suits and dress for a business meeting (that’s what it is) some wear business casual. Check the weather, The RALLY is outside. The lobbying is inside. With large crowds expected, there is a chance that you might not even be able to get into the building to Lobby your lawmakers, so you should be prepared to spend the duration of your visit outside in the elements. Please check the weather before coming and plan accordingly.



Are there carpools? Yep! Check out http://tiny.cc/vcdlride



How do I know which lawmakers represent me?

Check this website: https://whosmy.virginiageneralassembly.gov/



Where is the General Assembly Building? The Pocahontas Building at 900 East Main Street, Richmond, VA, 23219, is the temporary home for legislative members and staff while the former General Assembly Building is being remodeled. Constituents meet with their Delegate or Senator in the Pocahontas Building at these members' offices.



I have never been to lobby day. What do I do? Show up at 8 AM (bring family & friends) and gather outside of the building where lobbying teams will be formed and enter the building with a team leader to guide you. It will be helpful for you to know who your lawmakers are. Watch for the sea of orange Guns Save Lives stickers. Here is a video from a lobby day years ago -



I have been to lobby day and would like to be a team leader this year. Who do I contact? Contact Ken at [email protected]



What legislation are we looking at? Take a look at the VCDL legislation Tracker to see what we support, what we are neutral on and what we oppose. THIS tracker is the 2019 tracker and will be updated soon: http://www2.vcdl.org/webapps/vcdl/2019leg.html



When do any new laws take effect?

Generally, the new laws take effect on July 1, 2020.



Is there food? There are a number of delis and restaurants within walking distance and sometimes food trucks show up



Parking - Meters are not enforced on lobby day. There are garages and some private lots around. Google or a parking app is your best bet to shop location and price.



https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.spothero.spothero



https://apps.apple.com/us/app/spothero-1-rated-parking-app/id499097243



I’m from the press, who can I speak to that represents VCDL and their position? Only the VCDL President, Philip Van Cleave speaks for the organization. [email protected] (Mr. Van Cleave can designate speakers at his discretion)



Who will be speaking at lobby day in front of the steps during the rally? We will present the list as the day approaches. So far we have:



• Dick Heller from the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case of DC v. Heller



• Cam Edwards of Bearing Arms and host of the Cam & Co YouTube channel



• Jeff Katz, talkshow host on Richmond's powerhouse radio station WRVA



Where can I Buy some VCDL gear?

https://vcdl-gear.myshopify.com/



How do I get on the free VCDL VA-ALERT email list?

https://vcdl.org/VA-ALERT



I have extra money and would like to donate to the VCDL and the VCDL-PAC (Political Action Committee) Can I? Sure! https://vcdl.org/donate



Am I a VCDL member? If you follow us on Facebook or Twitter or even the VA-ALERT email, that is great! You need to actually JOIN (and pay your $25 membership fee) to be a member. You can also give the gift of membership - https://vcdl.org/join-VCDL



After Lobby Day, Then what?

Stay engaged. Go to the committee meetings and speak to the committees and tell them no more gun control in your own words. Follow along on our free email list, the VA-ALERT. As soon as you see an action item come out, immediately respond do whatever is asked.



Are there going to be buses? Yes.

Buses



VCDL is chartering buses to Lobby Day on January 20. All seats are $35. All depart Richmond at 2 PM. Sign up through Eventbrite; all signups go live on Thursday morning at 6AM.



A donation of $35/person will *just* cover costs for the nine buses. If you want to donate more, please do. If you want to buy seats for others, please do. If you prefer to make a donation via PayPal (see vcdl.org/donate/pp) you may do so, but you will still need your Eventbrite ticket to ride the bus..



To donate a seat for another rider, use this link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/donate-a-seat-on-a-bus-for-lobby-day-jan-20-2020-tickets-85874911171



If you want to pay by check, mail it to VCDL Treasurer, 19390 Beaver Dam Rd, Beaverdam, VA 23015-1350 - but you'll still need your Eventbrite ticket to ride the bus.



Direct questions, if any, to [email protected]



Buses will run from



- Roanoke - Roanoke Park and Ride - Route 1150 (Edgebrook Road) & Route 1128 (Mountain Heights Drive)

Departs 4:30 AM Leaves Richmond at 2 PM

Signup: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/85445575015



- Shenandoah Valley with pickups in New Market, Woodstock, and Harrisonburg

Departs Woodstock WalMart at 3:30 AM

Departs New Market Library at 4:00 AM (Stay tuned; new location likely)

Departs Harrisonburg WalMart at 4:30 AM



Leaves Richmond at 2 PM

Signup: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/85421476937



- Fairfax (2 buses)

- From Fairfax County Government Center Park & Ride



12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax

Departs 5:30 AM Leaves Richmond at 2 PM

Signup: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/85363417279



- Fredericksburg

Leaves Route 17 Commuter Lot

Departs 6:30 AM Leaves Richmond at 2 PM

Signup: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/85418917281



- Virginia Beach (2 buses)

Leaves Indian River Road Park & Ride 977 Reon Dr, Virginia Beach

Departs 5 AM Leaves Richmond at 2 PM

Signup: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/85429234139



- Norfolk



Leaves from WalMart 7530 Tidewater Drive

Departs 5:15 AM Leaves Richmond at 2 PM



Signup: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/85425462859



- Hampton.



- From Hampton Coliseum, 1000 Coliseum Drive

Departs 5:30 AM Leaves Richmond at 2 PM

Signup: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/85392538381



OTHER BUSES WE KNOW OF



CULPEPER/WARRENTON: Hosted by Rivenoak Armoury LLC. Details at https://www.facebook.com/events/444206749612034/ or https://www.eventbrite.com/e/vcdl-lobby-day-bus-ride-culpeperwarrenton-area-tickets-85780897975



DRAPER (Pulaski County): New River Sports is chartering a bus that leaves from their location, 3376 Kirby Rd (Frontage Rd) Draper, VA at 3:30 AM. Cost is $50/rider. Contact [email protected] or 540-980-1133.



MANASSAS: Fairfax County Rod and Gun Club is planning two buses from Manassas. Details as we learn them.



SOUTHAMPTON: Bus from Southampton County leaves from Hardee's on Highway 58, Courtland. Seats are $21/person. Leaves 6AM sharp; returns to Courtland about 4PM. Seats are limited and must be paid in full as soon as possible. If interested in going or have questions, contact Mike Evans at 757-615-8077. The bus will drop off and pick up directly at the Capitol Steps.



STAUNTON: The plan is to leave Staunton (location TBD) at 6:00 a.m., and be back home about 5:00 p.m.

Cost will be $25/seat, and payment to me will be due by January, 10. Anyone wishing to be on board, can contact me at [email protected] for more information. Please put LOBBY DAY BUS in the subject line. Depending on the response I get, it may take me a couple days to get back to everyone, so be patient.



SHENANDOAH COUNTY: Shenandoah County GOP has two buses coming. They leave from Woodstock at 6:30 AM and will not arrive in time for an 0800 start. They plan to be in Richmond by 0900 and their people will be meeting with Delegate Todd Gilbert. POC is Dianne Wyss, email [email protected].



SW VIRGINIA: Stephanie Miller Moir has charted four buses from Bedford - Tractor Supply 5:00 am; Lynchburg - Sam's Club 5:30 am; Appomattox - Farmers Bank 6:00 am; Farmville - Walmart 6:30. Sign up for that bus at https://tinyurl.com/s8nc2b2. Fare is $35 plus an online booking fee per seat.



WEYERS CAVE - We've heard of a potential bus from Weyers Cave; we'll update as we know more.

 

[AlexanderA]

PLEASE do not show up in tactical uniforms or open carrying rifles. Also, while I personally do not begrudge anyone with a Confederate flag, this day is NOT the day to show up with one. We do not need the media to have photos to match their incorrect talking points and characterizations. Thank you!

Exactly! This bears repeating. The VCDL has the right idea. Unfortunately, the event is growing beyond the VCDL's ability to control it. I read elsewhere that some groups are using this as an opportunity to air all sorts of conservative grievances. We need to keep this focused.

Also, I like that the VCDL is stressing that the intended audience is the legislature (and to a lesser extent the general public). Some others are saying that the audience is really.... ourselves, and this is really an exercise in self-bolstering. Therefore they justify out-of-control militancy as a form of pep rally. They are mistaken.

 

[hps1]

Good job! Obviously everyone is behaving sensibly as suggested in OP since national news can't seem to find anything to complain about in article published today (22 Dec).



Regards,
hps

 

[hso]

If you're having trouble identifying your legislator - https://whosmy.virginiageneralassembly.gov/

 

[jr45]

For those who planned on showing up armed, please see the NRA-ILA update...email alert excerpt I received is below:

Virginia: General Assembly Passes Capitol Gun Ban


Days before law-abiding citizens are set to go to Richmond to urge lawmakers to defend their rights, the new anti-gun majority of the Virginia General Assembly has passed an immediate gun ban for the Pocahontas Building, the Capitol, and Capitol Grounds through the duration of the 2020 General Assembly Legislative Session. Citizens will not be permitted to carry firearms into these locations, even if they have a Concealed Handgun Permit.

This majority, bought and paid for by Michael Bloomberg, will stop at nothing to cast your right of self-defense aside. This is just the first step as they make their way down Bloomberg’s wish-list. This is why it’s critical that law-abiding gun owners make themselves heard on January 13th during the first hearing of the Senate Courts of Justice Committee where lawmakers could hear the first slate of bills to restrict our freedom into oblivion. Waiting even one week to make our voices heard, whether individually or at an organized event, will simply be too late.

Anti-gun zealot Gov. Northam wants the entire package of gun control bills fast-tracked for passage in the early days of this brief session. We must defend freedom at the very first hearing on the 13th and show that our rights are not for sale – to Bloomberg or anyone else. Join us!

 

[hso]

For those who planned on showing up armed,

https://wtvr.com/2020/01/10/virginia-lawmakers-ban-guns-at-state-capitol/

Newly empowered Democrats in the General Assembly voted Friday to ban guns at the Capitol and a legislative office building, saying the move was needed to protect public safety.

This is important for those of you attending to understand that carry rules have changed. I would openly wear an empty holster in response to this.

 

[danez71]

This is important for those of you attending to understand that carry rules have changed. I would openly wear an empty holster in response to this.

That IS VERY IMPORTANT.

Thou, I'll add, empty holstets didn't work out so well when Californians did that.

Think it though... think how they other side may react.

Good luck

 

[hso]

From VCDL

If you're coming to VCDL's Lobby Day on January 20, that's awesome, and THANK YOU!

Now, if you want to make the best use of your time and energy, I suggest you all take a couple steps PRIOR to January 20th.

1) Know who YOUR state representatives are. You will have a Delegate and a Senator representing YOUR location. If you don't know who they are, go to https://whosmy.virginiageneralassembly.gov and check. It's really easy, folks. Write down their names and district numbers.

2) If you can, try to find the VCDL team assigned to either your Delegate or Senator. (It's unlikely a single team will get to BOTH of your reps, as I organize the teams by the lawmakers' office locations, to minimize movement in the Pocahontas building. Most teams will largely go down a single hallway, for example. There are exceptions...) You can ask here, or you can email me and I'll be happy to help. [email protected]

3) Be sure to tell your team leader you're a constituent of one of his/her assigned lawmakers. Your team leader will use that information in trying to get an appointment in place with the lawmakers -- it is ALWAYS easier to get an appointment if the team leader can guarantee there are constituent(s) on his/her team.

4) Ask your team leader if his/her team will be meeting in a specific location on lobby day. That's up to the team leads. If not, look for team leaders on lobby day. Most will have signs that list their lawmakers. Team leaders will also be wearing bright VCDL high-visibility vests and carrying orange VCDL clipboards.

5) Get there as early as you can. We're anticipating big crowds, and it is always slow getting through the security checkpoint at the Pocahontas building -- even with the new gun restrictions in place, everyone will go through a metal detector. (Think airport security with ONE lane open...)

6) On lobby day, if your team has already gone in or you simply can't find them, either find another team or go to the security line and ask around for them. It's quite possible they're still in line and you can still join them.

7) If you're able, make YOUR OWN appointments with your Delegate and Senator for after the VCDL rally and meet with them in person. If that's not feasible for you, consider coming back on another day and meeting with them. (Make an appointment...)

If you do these things, you're likely to have a more productive lobby day. A little bit of planning goes a long way.

Let's all have a great and SAFE lobby day, folks!


whosmy.virginiageneralassembly.gov
Who's My Legislator?

 

[hso]

From VCDL's FB page


LOBBY DAY LOGISTICS & IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Here are several things you need to know if coming to the VCDL Lobby Day on January 20th.

PARKING: If you are coming by car, there will be a satellite parking area at the Diamond located at 3001 N Arthur Ashe Blvd, Richmond, VA 23230. The entrance to the parking lot is round the corner on Robin Hood Road. VCDL will be running shuttle buses from the Diamond to 9th and Broad Streets from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm. Shuttle bus and parking are free, but if you want to make a donation to help cover the cost you can donate online by going to vcdl.org/donate. Street parking and local private garages will fill up quickly and we are trying to keep the traffic congestion around the area as low as possible.

HANDICAP DROP OFF: There will be an area on E. Marshall Street between 8th and 9th for handicap drop-off and pick-up. This will also be the location where the shuttle buses from the Diamond parking lot will load and unload. It is a 5 block walk to the point where the lines will form to enter the building and about 3-4 blocks to the entrance to Capitol Square. This is the closest that the Richmond Police Department (RPD) can get us. Also, please be advised that there will be no special entry line into the building for disabled people. The Capitol Police (CPD) and the Department of General Services (DGS) have indicated that one line and one entrance will be used for everyone.

BUS PARKING: If you are coming in a bus that we don't know about please contact us at [email protected] so that we can give you directions on the roads the buses must take to get to the parking area. Buses will be parked and will remain in that location until they are re-boarded for the trip home. It will be a short walk down the hill to the Capitol Square, about 4 to 6 blocks. RPD officers will guide you across Broad Street and will stop traffic as necessary for pedestrian crossing.

We would like to know the number of buses if possible so we can gauge how much parking will be needed. Passenger vehicles, including passenger vans, will NOT be permitted to park in the bus parking area.

STREET CLOSINGS: Broad Street will be restricted to one lane in each direction from 14th Street to 7th Street and will be closed at from time to time for pedestrian traffic. 9th Street will be closed to vehicle traffic from Cary Street to Broad Street. Main Street will be closed from 14th Street to 9th Street. Franklin and Grace Streets between 8th and 9th. Bank Street will be closed as well. These street closures will be in effect from 7:00 am until approximately 4:00 pm.

LOBBY TEAMS: Teams will begin forming at 8:00 am and start entering the GA Building right away. ARRIVE EARLY IF YOU INTEND TO LOBBY! We will meet at or near 10th and Bank Streets, form groups and move down 10th Street to Main to enter the building. Team Leaders will likely have orange VCDL clipboards and will be wearing high visibility vests. Seek them out as soon as you arrive and try to get on a team. Most team leaders will have a list of the Delegates and Senators with whom they will be meeting. However, if you can’t find a team with YOUR Delegate or Senator, we encourage you to join a team anyway, as things are likely to be crowded. Some Team Leaders are posting their Senator and Delegate assignments on Facebook. You can hook up with them in the VCDL Group.

EXPECT LONG LINES: There will be a large turnout. Not everyone will fit in the building at once. When the capacity is reached, entry into the building will be halted until people leave. Please visit your assigned offices and perhaps your own Senator's and Delegate's offices and then exit the building so others can enter. Patience is essential. If you have trouble standing for extended periods consider bringing a folding chair. WE HAVE BEEN TOLD BY CPD AND DGS THAT THERE WILL BE NO SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS FOR HANDICAP ENTRY INTO THE BUILDING.

DRESS FOR THE WEATHER: It is January. It can be cold. Most of the day will be spent outside. Please check the weather and dress appropriately. Business casual or better attire is suggested. When you are communicating with people you do so with your appearance as well as your words. Wear comfortable shoes. There is a hill to climb from Main to Broad and the Capitol Square area is hilly as well. The elevators in the building will be packed so you may end up using stairs.

FOOD: There have been some food truck vendors who have indicated that they will be nearby. There are restaurants in the vicinity as well. However, with this many people in the area there will be long lines. It is advisable to bring snacks or sandwiches. We will post an alert soon if there are any prohibited items. We are waiting for advice from RPD and CPD.

CARRY: As of this moment, carry is prohibited inside the General Assembly (GA) Building and the Capitol. For this reason we suggest that if you intend to go inside to lobby you should leave your firearm at home, in your hotel room, or out-of-sight in your locked vehicle. DO NOT LEAVE AN UNSECURED GUN IN AN UNLOCKED CAR! There have been multiple firearms stolen out of vehicles lately. DO NOT HANDLE A LOADED FIREARM. VCDL's firearm safety policy at all VCDL-sponsored meetings, events, or gatherings has always been that loaded firearms shall NOT be handled; they will remain holstered or otherwise secured at all times. Don't ask someone to hold your gun while you go in the building. We suggest that if you are lobbying and come unarmed that you travel in groups with a DD...Designated Defender. This person volunteers to stay outside while the others go in and make our voices heard. As an alternative, you can use a fanny pack type holster which can be taken off and handed to your companion for safe keeping while you go into the building. AGAIN, DO NOT TAKE THE FIREARM OUT OF ITS HOLSTER.

Folding knives with a metal blades less than 3 inches are allowed. However, some of the Capitol police officers were not aware of such knives being permitted on Monday, January 13. If the Capitol Police won't let you bring in such a knife, request a sergeant or a lieutenant to be summoned. Twice I carried a 2.9-inch knife and placed it in the provided screening basket as I went through security on January 19th. No problem.

Be patient with the Capitol Police on the screenings. It was not their idea, but Democrat leadership's idea. The police are just doing their job and VCDL has always had an excellent working relationship with them.

SITUATIONAL AWARENESS: There have been many rumors, videos, and articles flying around the internet. We cannot stress enough that this is a peaceful day to address our Legislature. Yes, we hold a rally, but the point of the day is communication with our Representatives. To our knowledge there are no credible threats of violence. That being said, please practice appropriate situational awareness. IF YOU SEE A BAD ACTOR flag down a police officer and point it out. If someone tries to provoke you, smile and walk away. There is probably someone secretly recording the interaction, with the intent of capturing some kind of inappropriate reaction on your part. Don't take the bait. It's not worth the bad press. The eyes of the nation and the world are on Virginia and VCDL right now and we must show them that gun owners are not the problem. Lead by example. We have been and continue to be in close contact with several law enforcement agencies and will keep them informed of all potential threats that we become aware of. Law enforcement will be in abundance at the event, both uniformed and plain clothes.

SCHEDULE: We begin lobbying at 8:00 am and continue until 10:30 am. From 11:00 am until noon we will have a rally at the Capital steps. It will be crowded, so try to get there early if you want to be able to see (and hear) the speakers. Once the rally is over you can continue lobbying, grab some lunch, or head back to your bus/car. OUR BUSES WILL DEPART AT 2:00 pm so allow yourself ample time to return to your bus.

SPECIAL ISSUE OF THE DEFENDER: Normally our newsletter, The Defender, is mailed to members and not available to the public until the next copy is published. However, we have decided to make this one available to everyone as it contains important information about Lobby Day. Please review map to familiarize yourself with the layout. The link is here.

Thank you all for your support. For those coming from other states to stand with Virginia, we appreciate you making the long trip. This will be a notable day in history. Let's all work together to keep it positive and to achieve our goal of protecting our right to keep and bear arms.
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To join VCDL, click here. To contribute to VCDL, click here.

To view the archives, click here.

Copyright © 2020 Virginia Citizens Defense League, All rights reserved.

 

[hso]

FYI, the ban on firearms inside the Capitol looks to include any knife over 3 inches blade length.

Read more: https://www.ammoland.com/2020/01/vi...ns-and-knives-in-state-capitol/#ixzz6B61xNK3U
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution
Follow us: @Ammoland on Twitter | Ammoland on Facebook


U.S.A. –-(Ammoland.com)- Virginia Democrats changed the rules of the General Assembly to ban guns and knives in the state capitol. Nearly all knives are banned as well as any item capable of launching a projectile. There is an exception for folding knives with a blade of less than 3 inches in length.

All people entering the capitol, with the exceptions of full-time, on duty, paid law enforcement officers and military personnel, who are conducting official business at the state capitol, are subject to the policy.

To enforce the policy, Capitol police are authorized to search and seize all people entering the building, with the exception of current members of the General Assembly. In practice, it is expected all people entering the building will have to go through metal detectors, with the exception of current legislators.

The rule change was passed on strict party lines. Democrats voted for the ban, Republicans voted against it.

The Democrats claim the ban is required for “public safety”, and that the Capitol Police recommended the ban. From vpm .org:

“This is a recommendation from our Capitol Police who we trust every day, and who have kept us safe, and I trust their judgment,” House Majority Leader Charniele Herring told the Joint Rules Committee meeting.

Capitol Police Chief Col. Anthony Pike said the Capitol Police had not recommended the ban. From wfmz.com:

But Capitol Police Col. Anthony Pike said after the vote that he made no recommendations on whether guns should be banned, only on how to implement the ban Democrats wanted. The new policy will require that everyone entering the Capitol, except for lawmakers, must go through a metal detector.

The Democrats were able to cite one incident, in 2006 when a Republican delegate accidentally discharged a handgun into a bullet-proof vest hanging on a door. No one was injured. Another delegate forgot a gun in a conference room, in 2017, for about 20 minutes.

Perhaps that would be a reason to ban delegates from conduction dry-fire practice. It does not seem to apply to the general public.

In the last 30 years, several states have loosened restrictions on the exercise of Second Amendment rights in state capitols. Among those are Texas, Wisconsin, Oklahoma, and Kentucky. At least 20 state capitols allow some form of the practice.

This is likely the first of numerous restrictions on the carry, ownership, and use of firearms in Virginia by the newly minted Democrat majority. They are unwilling to bear arms themselves. Machiavelli spoke of the mindset that is generated when a government disarms its people:

When you disarm [the people] you commence to offend them and show that you distrust them either through cowardice or lack of confidence, and both of these opinions generate hatred against you. – Niccoló Machiavelli, The Prince. 1537.

The Democrat party seems to believe they can convince enough of “the people” that they will be safer without arms than with them.

The next election will determine if Machiavelli or modern Democrats were a better judge of political realities.

Machiavelli had an excellent understanding of power politics and human nature, while modern Democrats have the advantage of mass media and propaganda techniques.

 

[AlexanderA]

The governor is extending the ban on all weapons to the entire Capitol grounds. That includes knives, helmets, and shields. (The official announcement will come later today.)

 

[Musicianized]

Facemasks still allowed.

 

[hso]

The official announcement will come later today.

VCDL reports only firearms and knives over 3.5" banned.

Where is the official announcement that bans more than that?

 

[Kevin5098]

VCDL reports only firearms and knives over 3.5" banned.

Where is the official announcement that bans more than that?

https://www.governor.virginia.gov/m...ivil-Unrest-at-the-Virginia-State-Capitol.pdf

 

[Texasgrillchef]

Deleted

 

[hso]

https://www.governor.virginia.gov/m...ivil-Unrest-at-the-Virginia-State-Capitol.pdf

Kevin,

Thanks!

Broad Street, Ninth Street, Bank Street and Governor Street in the City of Richmond, Virginia, as well as any Commonwealth-owned parking lots for Virginia’s Department of Transportation, the Madison Building, the Monroe Building, the Patrick Henry Building, Washington Building, the Jefferson Building, and the Oliver Hill Building.

1.“Firearm” means any handgun, pistol, revolver, or other weapon designed or intended to propel or expel a projectile or missile of any kind by action of an explosion of any combustible material; rifle, shotgun, automatic or semi-automatic gun; assault firearm as defined in § 18.2-308.2:2 of the Code; machine gun; 3D printed gun; or similar weapon. Firearm does not include any ceremonial firearm currently on display in a legislative branch agency.

2.“Weapon” means any weapon as defined in paragraphs (ii) through (v) of subsection A of § 18.2-308 of the Code and any stun weapon, as defined under § 18.2-308.1 of the Code, with the exception of a pocket knife having a folding metal blade of less than three inches. “Weapons” also includes, but is not limited to, sticks, torches, poles, bats, shields, helmets, caustic substances (i.e., pepper spray), hazardous materials, scissors, razor blades, needles, toy guns, toy weapons, fireworks, glass bottles, laser pointers, aerosol containers, baseballs, softballs, UAVs/Drones, or any item that can inflict bodily harm that is visible, other than firearms.

3.The prohibition with respect to weapons (other than firearms) shall not apply to (a) any person possessing a knife customarily used for food preparation or service and using it for such purpose, (b) any person who possesses a knife or blade that he uses customarily in his trade and using it in such trade, (c) any tool used by a person customarily in his trade and being used pursuant to a contract with a legislative branch agency, or (d) any tool used by a state employee as a condition of his position and being used in the scope of employment. The prohibition with respect to weapons (other than firearms) shall not apply to any ceremonial weapon currently on display or use in a legislative branch agency.

4.This prohibition applies to both the open and the concealed carry of firearms and other weapons.

There you have it. Because of some of the advocates for insurrection and violence Northam and his cronies got the excuse to treat all of us as a threat of violence and argue to the public and the press that they are validated in their desire to disarm us.

No surprise that, but it is now up to all of us to turn that back on them by showing up in huge numbers to peaceably assemble and participate in the political process.

 

[AlexanderA]

There you have it. Because of some of the advocates for insurrection and violence Northam and his cronies got the excuse to treat all of us as a threat of violence and argue to the public and the press that they are validated in their desire to disarm us.

No surprise that, but it is now up to all of us to turn that back on them by showing up in huge numbers to peaceably assemble and participate in the political process.

Exactly.

People don't realize that carrying weapons at a demonstration like this is actually a huge hindrance on the demonstrators. They have to be extra careful not to step out of line, and that precludes many of the more imaginative forms of protest. Unarmed demonstrators can get much closer to the line of violence. Groups like Antifa know this. In countries that have a long history of riots, civil disturbances, and protests (like Greece, for example), there are unwritten rules that preclude the presence of firearms in demonstrations. Molotov cocktails, yes; firearms, no. (Of course Greece has the experience, within living memory, of a civil war that erupted exactly when such a line was crossed.)

 

[Texasgrillchef]

Exactly.

People don't realize that carrying weapons at a demonstration like this is actually a huge hindrance on the demonstrators. They have to be extra careful not to step out of line, and that precludes many of the more imaginative forms of protest. Unarmed demonstrators can get much closer to the line of violence. Groups like Antifa know this. In countries that have a long history of riots, civil disturbances, and protests (like Greece, for example), there are unwritten rules that preclude the presence of firearms in demonstrations. Molotov cocktails, yes; firearms, no. (Of course Greece has the experience, within living memory, of a civil war that erupted exactly when such a line was crossed.)

Consider the walks and rallys of the 1960's many turned violant when those turned into riots. sometimes caused by kkk members who werent wearing their white hoods either.

 

[hso]

many of the more imaginative forms of protest.

Let me correct you and everyone else...this isn't a protest. The only imagination needed is to fill the Capitol with peaceful proponents of the political process lobbying the politicians against restrictions on law abiding citizens. Fill the offices, Capitol grounds, and streets of the city with 2A advocates.

No threats, except to dedicate your lives to replacing them if they pass anything like an AWB.

 

[AlexanderA]

At this point if you go down there unarmed you are leaving yourself at a huge disadvantage as far as personal safety is concerned.

If it truly is a struggle for freedom, then personal safety should be the least of our concerns. People that fought for freedom in the past were prepared to die. You do what you have to do.

Some of the participants in this event are saying goodbye to their families as if they are not going to see them again. It is that serious.

Besides that, what do you think you would do by taking a handgun with you? What is the threat against which you would be protecting yourself? It's not as though street muggers would be circulating among the crowd. No, the threat is at a higher level than that.

 

[badkarmamib]

I will be telling my family that I love them before I leave. I have struggled with this decision, it has caused a lot of sleepless nights. But, as you said, a handgun will be of small comfort, TBH. I will be faster, less restricted, more alert, and less liable without it. If everything goes well, I will be able to say that I was involved. If things go less than well, and I make it home, I will know for myself what happened, instead of relying on MSM for my "facts".

 

[hso]

VCDL will have comms and coordination internally and with the state police.

I see no reason to surrender to fear and am baffled by those advocating staying home. Were I a VA resident I would follow VCDL guidance and add to the numbers at the Capitol showing the Governor and Legislature we are not irrelevant.

If you can't attend without carrying VCDL asks you to attend outside the Capitol grounds boundary and support those who are participating on the Capitol grounds.

 

[badkarmamib]

And now, it seems that every "representative" that we needed to speak to, has retreated to a "safe space". It is not as much of a face-to-face lobby now, but a rally, a chance to talk to the representatives that are more-or-less on our side, and an opportunity to give the media a POSITIVE view of gun owners. This may change the plans for some.
Statement @4:00:
www.facebook.com/virginialawoffice/videos/545407059653029/

 

[old lady new shooter]

Those here who are going, know that those of us further away will be praying for you.

 

[hso]

https://twitter.com/13EvanWatson/status/1219236698061754369

Crowded but going well.