One of the most controversial topics in our nation’s history, and future, is the interpretation of the U.S . Constitution. Since its conception in 1787, the Constitution is perhaps the most debated piece of paper.

Because of the power and significant influence this element of history holds, our founding fathers on the right side of the spectrum created ten amendments to protect the freedoms of their country’s citizens, better known as the Bill of Rights. The key component here is the constitutional right to protect individual’s freedoms. This is the only valid argument for citizens’ right to bear arms.

Historically, the second amendment was created at a time in history when the right to protect and defend oneself was a necessity; the lack of established law enforcement required individuals to protect themselves and their families from any threat to their safety. However, in current times this right is not as necessary for protection of one’s safety as it is of their right. In an ideal world, guns would not be required for any type of law enforcement—but we are far from ideal.

Many would argue the phrase “Guns don’t kill people, people kill people,” and while this is true, a gun provides the means to kill. Yes, murderers will find a way to carry out their will, but the majority of gun-related murders, or accidents, occur when murder is not even the initial motivation.

So to those who believe carrying a gun will provide them with added protection, is fighting fire with fire truly the answer? Or the real question, if someone confronts you with a gun and approaches you with intent to bring you bodily harm, will you have the courage or ability to shoot them? Will you be able to murder them in your own defense, and live with the knowledge you brought a life to its end?

The answer is constitutional, you’re right to carry is protected, not the right to murder. Your intent and motivation is not the same as the criminal, which is the exact factor which sets you apart from them.

As to the argument of allowing concealed carry on campus, students claim it is their right to protect themselves no matter where they are. Above all rights on this campus, the first and foremost is to protect the safety and learning of our students.

But allowing students to carry on campus will only lead to a negatively impacted environment. Students will constantly feel threatened which is considered harassment under N.C. State policy, a charge dealt so seriously it would hopefully prevent any policy change of allowing concealed carry to pass on our campus.  

Under our U.S. Constitution, the right to bear arms is an individual freedom for everyone, making it the only justification for allowing individuals to carry a piece of heat. To rectify this, we as a society must remove the stigma associated with gun carrying. However, realistically we will never be able to do this, at least in our lifetime. So we must uphold the one thing we all agree upon—our individual, constitutional freedoms.