Hunting is a Privilege, Not a Right

Hunting is a privilege, in which only a small percentage of Americans participate. It is important that hunters understand this fact. We do not have a "right" to hunt. Distinguish between your privileges versus rights as citizens of Canada, the United States and Mexico.

 Our countries guarantee certain rights to all citizens. For example, we have the right to a trial if accused of a crime.

 Our societies grant privileges. Privileges require responsibility. Citizens must meet certain standards. Failing to meet standards or "play by the rules" may result in having privileges taken away.

For example, if kids do not do their homework, parents may take away their "privileges" to watch television. You may drive a car, but your license can be taken away if you act irresponsibly. Similarly, if hunters disobey hunting laws, their privilege to hunt may be taken away. If you act irresponsibly as a hunter, you hurt the resource, you hurt your own ability to continue hunting and you hurt the reputation of all hunters. This can jeopardize all hunters' privilege to hunt.