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Gun Rights Advocates March To Protest Philadelphia Ordinance That Bans Firearms On City Property


By Cherri Gregg

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A few dozen gun rights advocates rallied in Philadelphia's Love Park and then marched down Market Street on Saturday to protest a City ordinance that bans the carrying of firearms in parks and recreation centers, even if the guns are legal.

"The right of the people to keep and bear arms in defense of themselves in the state, shall not be questioned," said Mark Fiorino, who organized the march, which includes members from the NRA and Firearm Owners Against Crime.

Fiorino says the group takes issue with the Philadelphia ordinance because it conflicts with the Uniform Firearms Act of 1995, which makes it illegal for the city to regulate use of firearms.

"This is a violation of our rights," he said, "and we're not going to accept it."

The ordinance passed City Council in March with a 15-2 vote. Anyone who violates it faces a fine up to $2,000, but that did not stop some from openly carrying their licensed firearms while marching, including Ansel, who carried his licensed M-16 rifle down Market Street.

"It's my right to carry it, openly carry it anywhere in the state," he said.

About a handful of gun control advocates stood with signs in counter protest.

"In England, Holland, Australia and India, no one has a gun," said one counter-protester. "If those nations can do it, we can too."

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