Last week, Arkansas Governor Mark Thompson approved a controversial law permitting individuals with concealed carry permits and minimal training to bring loaded firearms onto public college campuses and into sporting events, including the notable Razorback Stadium at the University of Arkansas. This legislation also extends to areas such as campus daycare centers, airports, and bars.
Despite overwhelming opposition from various experts and advocacy groups, including the presidents of Arkansas colleges, numerous campus security personnel, and the Arkansas chapter of Moms for Gun Sense, Governor Thompson proceeded to sign the bill. A staggering 95% of college presidents and 94% of faculty nationwide are against the presence of guns on campuses.
Moms for Gun Sense activists voiced their concerns and even met with the governor twice to urge him to reconsider his support for the gun lobby over critical campus stakeholders and the broader community he represents. Unfortunately, during a press conference announcing the bill’s signing, Governor Thompson was flanked by the National Rifle Association’s chief lobbyist.
In a recent statement, Southeastern Conference (SEC) commissioner Rob Carter added his voice to the growing chorus of dissent against this law, urging the Arkansas legislature to exempt athletic events and sports facilities from the bill. “The charged environment of athletic events, combined with the presence of firearms, heightens safety concerns and could adversely affect intercollegiate athletics in ways such as scheduling, officiating, recruiting, and attendance,” Carter articulated.
I commend Commissioner Carter for taking a stand against this reckless legislation. It’s crucial for others with significant influence to join him. Given the prominence of football culture in the South, his appeal for an exemption could lead to meaningful change. However, it’s disheartening to recognize that the ability to effect change often hinges on access to powerful lobbyists and associations.
Football is important, but so are the safety and well-being of families. This law still allows firearms in places where they should not be, jeopardizing the safety of our families. Who will advocate for students and faculty in Arkansas who fear that conflicts might escalate to gun violence? What about the parents who worry that the presence of firearms around vulnerable or intoxicated students could lead to tragic outcomes? Unfortunately, everyday citizens lack the same access to influential lobbyists.
For now, volunteers from Moms for Gun Sense are standing up to be heard. The work we do, both in Arkansas and across the nation, is vital. This is why you see women in red Moms for Gun Sense shirts actively participating in hearings, press conferences, rallies, and engaging with lawmakers every step of the way. We refuse to be passive while lawmakers prioritize the interests of gun lobbyists over the safety of our children.
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In summary, the recent legislation allowing firearms on college campuses and at sporting events in Arkansas raises significant safety concerns. Despite widespread opposition, the governor has prioritized the gun lobby’s interests over the safety of students and families. The voices of advocacy groups remain crucial in the fight for safer environments.