I'm a black guy who just bought a rifle for self defense and I feel so empowered

I'm a black guy who just bought a rifle for self defense and I feel so empowered<br><br>As a young black man living in Ohio, I've experienced my fair share of racism and harassment. I've been called the N-word on multiple occasions, and I've even been accused of crimes I didn't commit simply because of the color of my skin. I've been pulled over by the police for no reason, and I've been searched and questioned without cause. It's a terrifying and humiliating experience.<br><br>But things took a turn for the worse last year. I was walking home from a friend's house when a car pulled up next to me. A group of white men jumped out and started yelling at me. They called me the N-word and threatened to hurt me. I tried to defend myself, but I was outnumbered and outmatched. They beat me up and left me lying in the street.<br><br>It wasn't until that moment that I realized just how vulnerable I am as a black man in America. The police aren't always there to protect me, and I need to be able to defend myself. So I made the decision to buy a gun.<br><br>I did a lot of research and talked to a lot of people before making my decision. I wanted to make sure that I was making the right choice for my safety and well-being. In the end, I decided to buy a rifle. I chose a rifle because it's a powerful weapon that can be used for self-defense, and it's also relatively inexpensive.<br><br>I went to a local gun store and purchased the rifle. I felt a little nervous as I walked in, but the staff were friendly and helpful. They answered all of my questions and showed me a variety of different rifles. I ended up choosing a used rifle that was in good condition and fit my budget.<br><br>As I walked out of the store with my new rifle, I felt a sense of pride and empowerment. I realized that I was taking control of my safety and well-being, and that I was doing something to protect myself and my community.<br><br>I've been practicing with my rifle at a local shooting range, and I feel more confident with each passing day. I know that I can defend myself if I need to, and that knowledge gives me a sense of peace and security.<br><br>I would be lying if I said I wasn't a little scared of the implications of owning a rifle as a black man. I know that there are a lot of negative stereotypes surrounding black people and guns, and I worry that I'll be viewed as a threat simply because of my skin color. But I'm trying not to let that fear hold me back. I'm focusing on the positive aspects of gun ownership, and I'm working to educate myself and others about the importance of responsible gun ownership.<br><br>If you're considering buying a gun for self-defense, I say go for it. It's a big decision, but it can also be incredibly empowering. Just make sure you do your research and follow all local and national laws. Also, please be aware of your surroundings and make sure you're prepared to use your weapon if you need to.<br><br>I would also like to state that I do not feel that weaponizing myself (and other members of my community) is a long term solution to the issue of over policing and the brutality black people face at the hands of Police. <br><br>I do believe however, as a black man in America, I have a right to defend myself.