Listen Up, Arkansas: College Campuses and Sporting Events Aren’t Safe Spaces for Firearms

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Last week, Arkansas Governor David Reynolds approved a controversial law that mandates public colleges and universities in the state to permit individuals with concealed carry permits to bring loaded firearms onto campus grounds and into sporting events, including the well-known Razorback Stadium. This new legislation also extends to daycares, airports, and bars on campus.

Despite significant opposition from experts and community advocates—including every college president in Arkansas, numerous campus police officers, and the Arkansas chapter of Responsible Gun Use Advocates—Governor Reynolds chose to sign this bill. It’s worth noting that nationwide, these types of laws are largely unpopular, with 95% of college presidents and 94% of faculty members opposed to firearms on campus.

Volunteers from Responsible Gun Use Advocates actively campaigned against this Arkansas legislation and even met with the governor on multiple occasions in a bid to persuade him to prioritize the safety of students and faculty over the interests of gun lobbyists. Unfortunately, with a prominent lobbyist from the National Rifle Association present, Governor Reynolds announced his decision to enact this dangerous law.

In the aftermath of his signing, the governor has added Southeastern Conference (SEC) commissioner Mark Thompson to the growing list of critics who have condemned this law. Commissioner Thompson issued a statement urging the Arkansas legislature to exempt athletic events and sports venues like Razorback Stadium from the law. He expressed valid concerns, noting that introducing firearms into the charged atmosphere of sporting events could escalate safety risks and negatively impact various aspects of intercollegiate athletics, such as scheduling and attendance.

I applaud Commissioner Thompson for taking a stand against this reckless legislation, and I encourage other influential figures to join him in speaking out. Football holds significant cultural weight in the South, and Thompson’s advocacy for an exemption could spark necessary change. However, it’s disheartening that effective advocacy often relies on access to powerful lobbyists—something everyday Americans typically lack.

While the excitement of college football is undeniable, the safety of families should be paramount. This law still permits guns in locations where they pose a genuine threat to safety, putting everyone at risk. Who will advocate for those students and faculty who fear that conflicts might escalate to gun violence? What about the parents who worry about the risks posed by having firearms around students who may be depressed or intoxicated?

Fortunately, organizations like Responsible Gun Use Advocates are committed to being the voices for those who feel unheard. This is why the work we do—both in Arkansas and across the nation—is crucial. Our volunteers, donning their signature red shirts, actively participate in hearings, press conferences, and rallies, ensuring that lawmakers prioritize the safety of our children over the gun lobby’s interests.

In summary, while the new law in Arkansas is a significant concern for students and families, it’s essential to keep the conversation going. For more insights into related topics, check out this informative article on home insemination. If you’re considering options for starting a family, reputable online retailers like Make A Mom offer at-home insemination syringe kits. Additionally, the CDC provides valuable resources for those navigating pregnancy and home insemination.

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