As a lifelong Virginia resident, and an avid supporter of all Rights granted by the Constitution; I urge the passing of this petition, and the subsequent allowance of the lawful carry of firearms in State parks.  There are many reasons to allow law-abiding citizens the right to self-defense; especially in light of the many violent crimes perpetrated annually in "gun-free" zones.  These laws do nothing to protect the population, only the criminals who disobey the laws; giving them access to an unarmed group of people to harass or conduct criminal acts against without the fear of immediate and decisive retribution.  Some have said they would be “fearful” if they saw a person with a handgun; this is absolutely absurd on many levels, and the immediate disqualification of an armed citizen, trained in the safe, proper, and lawful use of firearms is beyond contempt.  Citizens who carry concealed have gone through training, criminal background checks and many other legal hoops in order to do things the right way.  Do not continue to place these individuals on uneven footing with respect to rights and a voice.  Pass this petition.