Parents should refrain from giving replicas of handgun, automatic assault rifle, submachine gun and other weapons of war as Christmas presents to children. Health, environmental and peace advocates pleaded with parents to give a “crystal clear” message to kids that guns, including imitation guns, are not fun and not suitable for children to play with, much less use. Toy guns are sold at popular prices and are favorite gift items, especially for young boys. They bear a close resemblance to real weapons and are marketed, as shown in some product labels, for their “realistic sound blaster” and for “simulating a true to the war form.” “Giving toys that encourage violence reinforces this negative learning. Would you even think of gifting the child Jesus with a toy gun?' stated Marie Marciano of the EcoWaste Coalition, adding that “lest we forget, the gifts we give on Christmas are really our gifts to the Prince of Peace.” “In lieu of toy guns, we encourage parents to pick age-appropriate and non-hazardous gifts that promote a culture of creativity, harmony, and peace, and not that of prejudice, war and violence. We urge parents to take action to stop the merchandising of violence to susceptible children and proclaim that violence is not child's play,” said Manny Calonzo of the EcoWaste Coalition in a statement issued Thursday.
