The USCCA believes all individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, sex, pregnancy, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, economic status, political affiliation and/or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws, have the right to effective self-defense. Along with the right to self-defense, the USCCA further believes it is the responsibility of every armed citizen to maintain a level of training that will ensure any self-defense actions are carried out within the bounds of applicable laws as set forth by our elected representatives. The USCCA further believes that all persons, regardless of race, color, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, sex, pregnancy, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, economic status, political affiliation and/or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws, should have the ability to receive the best legal counsel available during any investigation into a use of force for self-defense. All responsibly armed citizens should be treated fairly and equally.