In Memoriam: Henry Heymering, Founder of Maryland Shall Issue

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our Founder, Henry Heymering on January 19th, 2022 at 71. Henry founded Maryland Shall Issue in 2004 with the aim of taking a different approach to pro-2nd Amendment and self-defense advocacy by focusing on non-partisan outreach and education. During his time as president, MSI became one of the regular entities in Annapolis working to protect the interests of gun owners. MSI helped to fend off earlier attempts at banning the possession of common semi-automatic rifles and handguns, taxes on ammunition, and hosts of other attempts at criminalizing or further burdening gun ownership. MSI had also pushed for a Maryland constitutional amendment recognizing the right to keep and bear arms and bills that would allow citizens to apply for permits to carry a handgun in public without needing a "good and substantial reason," hence our name. Toward the end of his presidency, he also signed MSI on as amicus in a brief in support of the landmark, District of Columbia v. Heller. His chronology on Maryland's carry laws is often cited in our testimony and that of other advocates.

Long before he founded MSI, Henry was a life-long horseback rider and became a farrier (one who shoes horses) as a teenager. His interest and work led him to create the American Farriers Journal in 1975 and he'd go on to become a world-renowned authority in the field. When he wasn't caring for and enjoying the company of horses, he was also a musician and cowboy action shooter.

MSI's all-volunteer tradition of advocating before lawmakers, in courtrooms, and most importantly, the people, are all thanks to Henry. His legacy will be carried on and continues through our work to finally make Maryland shall issue.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/fredericknewspost/name/henry-heymering-obituary?id=32585548

 An early MSI logo.