America’s largest sports and outdoors show was postponed Thursday after the NRA issued a boycott, following the event’s ban on “modern sporting rifles,” or semi-automatic rifles.
The National Rifle Association called on Reed Exhibitions, the British-based organizer of the Harrisburg Eastern Sports and Outdoor Show, to reconsider their decision, stating that the NRA’s participation would hinge on the outcome.
“Unfortunately, [Reed Exhibitions has] steadfastly refused to do so,” the NRA said in a release. “As a result, the NRA will not be participating in the upcoming show in Harrisburg or in any other shows hosted by Reed Exhibitions that maintain this policy.”
Hundreds of companies then pulled out of the event, including Cabela's, Rough Country Outfitters, Ruger Firearms, International Bowhunting Organization, IScope, J & M Traditions, Katahdin’s Shadow Outfitters, Keystone Country Store, Major League Bowhunter, Masterpiece Outdoors Inc. and hundreds more, Townhall reports.
Reed Expeditions issued a statement today, announcing its decision to postpone the event indefinitely.
“It has become very clear to us after speaking with our customers that the event could not be held because the atmosphere of this year’s show would not be conducive to an event that is designed to provide family enjoyment,” the statement reads. “We will have an opportunity to consider rescheduling the event when the time is right to focus on the themes it celebrates.”
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Jessica Chasmar is a continuous news writer for The Washington Times. Previously, she was part of the start-up team for The Washington Times’ digital aggregation product, Times247. She can be reached at jchasmar@washingtontimes.com.
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