Almost 1,000 people gathered outside the Colorado state Capitol with flags and signs for a pro-gun rally Saturday.
The rally was held as part of the first Gun Appreciation Day, held just days after President Barack Obama announced a comprehensive package of gun-control proposals.
The crowd gathered on the stone steps and grassy hill on the west side of the Capitol as they cheered and listened to speakers. Many held up signs with messages such as “Party like it’s 1776” and “Registration is the first step to confiscation.”
Alice Gohlke carried a pink sign with fluorescent letters that read, “Gun free zones are safe havens for criminals.”
Gohlke, a competitive shooter, drove up from Colorado Springs to attend the rally, she said.
“I’m worried that Obama is going to take my gun away. I’m not only worried as a competitive shooter but as a woman who would like to defend myself,” Gohlke said. “The more laws there are, the more criminals there are going to be.”
State Rep. Chris Holbert, R-Parker, spoke at the rally. He said in the past weeks he has received several phone calls and letters begging him to address gun-control issues.
“The Second Amendment serves as a defense against tyranny, and I will not compromise on that issue,” Holbert said. “I am not going to compromise on the Second Amendment.”
Supporters waved flags and signs along Broadway. Drivers blared their horns as they passed the rally, which lasted almost two hours.
Justin Durnford was one of several people waving a Tea Party flag during the rally.
“We should be able to have whatever weapons we feel we need to protect ourselves,” Durnford said. “Whatever weapons we feel comfortable with to protect our families with.”
Jordan Steffen: 303-954-1794, jsteffen@denverpost.com or twitter.com/jsteffendp
