Women’s Rights, Firearm Ownership and Self-Defense
By: Staci Claunch
Southwest Regional Director of Women for Gun Rights
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the strides women have made in securing their rights and ensuring their personal safety. In doing so, we must acknowledge that the right to self-defense is not just a matter of personal security. It is a fundamental civil right — one that intersects with women’s empowerment, safety and responsible gun ownership.
Historically, women’s rights have often been framed within the context of voting, workplace equality and reproductive freedom. For much of that same history, gun ownership has been viewed as a predominantly male domain — and for centuries women were expected to rely on male protectors, law enforcement or social structures to ensure their security.
While these institutions play a role in public safety, they cannot always be present in moments of immediate danger. A firearm in the hands of a responsible, trained woman provides her with the means to protect herself and her loved ones when no one else can.
That’s why, over the past several years, more and more women have embraced gun ownership and challenged the notion that ownership is a privilege for men only. They are recognizing that owning and carrying a firearm is a civil rights issue — one that acknowledges a woman’s autonomy over her own safety. As a result, women are one of the fastest growing segments of the gun-owning population today.
At the same time, with rights come responsibilities. Firearm ownership is a serious commitment that requires education, training and practice. Training programs and women-focused firearms education courses have grown in popularity, offering instruction on marksmanship, situational awareness and conflict avoidance. These programs not only teach practical skills but also foster confidence and self-sufficiency. If you’re going to own a firearm, take the time to learn how to use it. As I like to say, the first time someone handles a firearm should not be the first time they need it in an emergency.
Likewise, women who choose to own firearms must also embrace the responsibility of storing that firearm securely when it’s not in use. Protecting the safety of yourself and your family means more than simply bringing a firearm into your home. Ensuring that firearm cannot be accessed by a child, someone who may be at-risk of suicide, a burglar or any unauthorized person should be the top priority.
Additionally, advocating for responsible gun ownership strengthens the integrity of the Second Amendment. Women who own and carry firearms responsibly help dispel negative stereotypes about gun owners and contribute to a culture of safety and preparedness.
As we honor Women’s History Month, we must acknowledge that the right to self-defense is an essential part of women’s civil rights. Firearm ownership, when paired with education and responsibility, provides women with a means of protection, empowerment and self-reliance. The movement for women’s rights includes the right to personal safety, and in an era where women are increasingly embracing their autonomy, responsible firearms ownership is a powerful tool in the ongoing fight for equality and security.
Staci Claunch is a U.S Army and Navy veteran – where she served in both Iraq and Afghanistan – mother of three, wife of 16 years and owner of Scorpion Defense LLC. She shoots competitively and is a Safety Officer for the International Defensive Pistol Association, USCCA instructor, Account Executive for Delta Defense and the Southwest Regional Director of Women for Gun Rights. As a self-declared firearms enthusiast, her passion is for training and working with women who are new to the sport.