Texas at the Forefront of Student Protection

We all remember the horror of the shootings at Virginia Tech. No one on that campus was permitted to be armed, and thus all were essentially defenseless against the well armed assailant who roamed the campus. 

Well this year the Texas Legislature is taking steps to allow students the ability to protect themselves. Sen. Jeff Wentworth (R-San Antonio) and Rep. Joe Driver (R-Garland) have each sponsored legislation to permit concealed carry on all college campuses in the State of   Texas. (Currently Utah is the only state which permits concealed carry on campus)  While there will of course  be the expected whining from those who are chronically opposed to any Second Amendment freedoms, there are many sane, educated students, even within the ranks of University students. At University of Texas, Dallas, a student paper has even written in favor of the bill. Alex Ransom writes a well balanced essay, addressing the issue logically and with well presented facts.

Passing the bill would be a real victory for constitutional rights. We the people have the right to bear arms, according to the Second Amendment of the Bill of Rights.

Students for Gun Free Schools, the main student-run opposition group to the movement, has a following on Facebook of 12,000 members and 20 campus leaders. The five main reasons they list for opposing concealed handguns on campus run counter to the facts.

The group’s No. 1 reason listed on its Website is very easily disproved. They claim concealed handguns would detract from a healthy learning environment.

This is simply not true. A concealed handgun is, by definition, not visible. Those who carry in public can face legal consequences if they show their weapon.

In view of the some recent violent episodes on campuses across the nation, Texas has shown some leadership. They have demonstrated rational thought in a see of emotionally clouded politics. The Lone Star State is an example to others.  We will do well to follow this closely, and to encourage other states and localities to follow suit.

As always, 

Keep the Faith!

The Rev