In response to the recent letter from David and Sheridan Hadley regarding the Montgomery County Boys & Girls Club hosting the Friends of NRA charity function, it’s important to clarify what is now the core issue. This discussion is not about the broader debate on gun control or the merits of FRNA; rather, it concerns the pressure being placed on BGC to align with Hadley’s viewpoints. Hadley is a political activist and longtime professor of political science so should understand the harmful consequences of using public opinion for leverage on a charity.
It’s worth noting that FRNA chose to partner with BGC as a venue due to logistical reasons including large attendance at Crawfordsville FRNA banquets. I assume this is also a financially beneficial situation for the club.
The event itself, while featuring some firearms on display, primarily serves as an evening of games and auctions to raise funds for charity. Attendees who purchase firearms through auctions follow strict legal procedures, including filling out ATF Form 4473 and retrieving their purchases from licensed gun stores.
However, Hadley’s efforts to compel BGC to sever ties with FRNA place the club in a difficult position.
Succumbing to this pressure risks alienating a significant portion of the community who support gun rights, while continuing the partnership may displease those who share the Hadleys’ views.
I urge the Hadleys to reconsider their approach and extend a public apology to the BGC board. Rather than exacerbating divisions, let’s work towards finding common ground and supporting the invaluable work of organizations like BGC.
Kim Skibbe
Crawfordsville
