Rev. Jesse Jackson takes aim at gunshops, holding protests blaming the businesses for joblessness

(WXYZ-Southfield) - A shop run by a man known for taking action to prevent unnecessary violence is the target of a protest promoted by one of the nation’s most well known civil rights activists.

The Reverend Jesse Jackson says joblessness leads to despair, then people in despair turn to guns and violence.

He says get rid of the guns and the jobs will come back. 

“Guns out, Jobs in,” he has chanted before crowds as he travels the country, promoting demonstrations at gun shops in 25 cities.

A protest is planned outside the Action Impact gun shop on 8 mile in Southfield from noon until 1p.m.

Critics of Jackson say his logic is flawed, that getting rid of guns or gun shops will not create jobs.  They say the gun shops create jobs, and often are run by law-abiding citizens.

The store in the crosshairs of the demonstrations in Southfield is run by a former law enforcement officer.  He has been honored for his community involvement and actively works to prevent senseless violence.  He voluntarily restricts ammunition sales in the days before New Year’s Eve and Devil’s Night in an effort to prevent reckless gun use.

We want to know what you think about this.  Will getting rid of guns improve the job situation in our communities?  Should gun shops be targeted?  Leave your comments below or vote in the attached poll to make your voice heard.