On March 15, 2019, in Christchurch, New Zealand, an extremist opened fired in two mosques resulting in the deadliest mass shooting in the history of the country. The tragedy devastated countless families and caused panic throughout the entire country.

However, the way in which the New Zealand government handled the situation is something that the United States government could learn from.

The government of New Zealand has made many distinct choices relating to the reactions and press releases surrounding this event. While, of course, initially focusing on the victims and expressing their condolences, they also decided to make a statement through new policies and censored press.

Contrary to the United States form of the press after a mass shooting, the media of New Zealand has chosen to censor the face of the shooter to the public. It is widely known that people who commit these horrendous acts often do it in search of a sort of celebrity status, which is achieved through the media plastering their face over all media outlets. By censoring the face of the man who committed this crime, the New Zealand press has revoked the potential for glorification through publicity.

This small act makes such a large statement, showing the true desire to prevent these crimes in the future of New Zealand.

The Prime Minister has also wasted no time correcting gun policies in the country, something that has not happened after thousands of mass shootings in the United States. This was in direct response to this mass shooting and will include restricting certain types of guns, including the type that was used to carry out this shooting.

Whether or not these changes will prevent further tragedies, the mere effort on the government's part is something that Americans have not seen in their country. It shows a sense of involvement and wants for change on behalf of the government, which results in a sense of security for the citizens.