Rotary International Guns & Weapons Review Response Letter

12 June 2017
 
Dear Club President Lannon:
 
Thank you for your letter petitioning the Rotary International Board of Directors to reconsider its policy regarding club and district activities that involve guns and other weapons. The RI Board reviewed your request at its June meeting this week and has decided to clarify its policy:
 
  • The policy allows clubs and districts to hold gun raffles and sponsor gun shows, as long as no club or district ever takes ownership of the weapons and all transfers of firearms are conducted by licensed third parties.
 
  • The policy does not prohibit sponsorship by companies that manufacture or sell guns.
 
The policy also provides guidance on the depiction of weapons with the Rotary Marks. Specifically, the Rotary Marks may not be shown along with images of guns or other weapons. It would not prohibit the incidental appearance of a gun or other weapon, for example, in a photo of a police officer being honored at a club function.
 
The Board wishes to express its appreciation to your club for its input. The Board also thanks your club for its continued service in your local community and beyond.
 
Sincerely,

John P. Hewko
John P. Hewko
 
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