In a response to the tragic Sandy Hook Elementary Shooting in New Town Connecticut, “SouthingtonSOS”, a group that was set up in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and includes representatives from the Chamber of Commerce, YMCA, schools, the fire service and the church are launching  the “The Violent Video Games Return Program”. The program will offer $25 gift certificates for any violent video games, music, or movies.

“[There is a] need for parents to have a real, sound conversation with their children about video games,” Southington School superintendent Joe Erardi told Polygon.

“There are youngsters who appear to be consumed with violent video games. I’m not certain if that’s a good thing. If this encourages one courageous conversation with a parent and their child, then it’s a success.

“We’re suggesting that for parents who have a child or children who play violent video games, to first of all view the games. We’re asking parents to better understand what their child is doing. Have a conversation about next steps. If parents are comfortable (with their child’s gaming habits), we’re comfortable.”

An official SouthingtonSOS statement adds: “The group’s action is not intended to be construed as statement declaring that violent video games were the cause of the shocking violence in Newtown on December 14th.

“Rather, SouthingtonSOS is saying is that there is ample evidence that violent video games, along with violent media of all kinds, including TV and movies portraying story after story showing a continuous stream of violence and killing, has contributed to increasing aggressiveness, fear, anxiety and is desensitizing our children to acts of violence including bullying.

“Social and political commentators, as well as elected officials including the president, are attributing violent crime to many factors including inadequate gun control laws, a culture of violence and a recreational culture of violence.”

Personally, I am strongly against the burning of video games, movies and music. All 3 of these things are forms of art and these people have no right to destroy art on a large-scale. Despite that they are buying these things from people, it reminds me of the burning of books that occurred in Nazi controlled Germany before and during World War 2.

Post by Jerome Weiswasser