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Guns on Campus and Student Protection

By Julian Wilson
Assistant Opinions Editor

In recent times, gun control has been a recurring theme and lasting debate that have many people divided in view and perspective. Aside from recent international and domestic affairs, the talk of guns has taken on a new plan of action: one that could affect how students protect themselves on college campuses.

“Arming female students will help reduce sexual assaults,” according to Alan Schwarz’s article in the New York Times from Feb. 18, “A Bid for Guns on Campuses to Deter Rape.”

On the opposing side, the article said, “University campuses should remain havens from the gun-related risks that exist elsewhere, and that college students, with high rates of binge drinking and other recklessness, would be particularly prone to gun accidents.”

With the idea of guns possibly serving as a protective tool for students on campus, what do Post students think of it?

“I don’t think guns on campus will help in the effort,” said junior Broadcasting major Kaitlyn Veygel, who is not attracted to the idea of allowing firearms on campus. “If security are the ones who are in control of the weapons, it’s not going to help the girl or boy in the moment that they’re being assaulted,” Veygel said.

Sophomore Accounting major Mike Nicosia agrees with Veygel’s notion. “I don’t think guns solve the rape and assault issue,” Nicosia said. “It’s one thing to own a gun and flash it off, and another to own one and not be afraid to pull the trigger without thinking about the consequences.”

As the government is hoping for public approval in this debate, they’re not wasting any time making moves towards that direction. “This year, lawmakers in 10 states who are pushing bills that would permit the carrying of firearms on campus are hoping that the national spotlight on sexual assault will help them win passage of their measures,” according to Schwartz.

“Guns are taking a huge leap forward when there are already services in place to help, and could lead to more unintended violence,” said Charlie Moerler, a junior Broadcasting major.

Veygel believes there are other tools of protection that would be less harmful for the campus environment.

“Instead of guns, I would recommend pepper spray or even taser guns,” she said. “They’re less lethal, and, in my opinion, more effective.”

Nicosia believes that guns on campus could only work only if these were in the hands of trained security guards, but even that would not make the environment safe.

Moerler also believes in other ways to keep students safe, preaching for more circulation of public safety guards, and occasional local police patrols at night. He also suggests more lights and emergency call buttons be set up on campus.

What do you think about guns as a protective tool on college campuses? Let us know your thoughts, comments, and suggestions at liupostpioneer@gmail.com.

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