By Michelle Costa
In the last year, there have been seven campus shootings which have made students at Idaho State University take action. They're holding a silent protest this week to represent their inability to carry concealed weapons on campus. Members of the group called Students for Concealed Carry on Campus, or the SCCC, said it's a nationwide protest.
Jared Harward is studying law enforcement at Idaho State University and will enter into the law enforcement program next year. But, for today, he's ...
"Just attending classes like normal," said Jared Harward, SCCC Campus Leader.
... along with being openly passionate about carrying concealed weapons on campus.
"My passion may have led me to that career choice, but I've always been passionate about guns," said Harward.
Members of the group will be wearing empty gun holsters throughout the week. They'll look similar to a cell phone holder, which may not even be that visible. So far, most people said they haven't noticed many students participating.
"As I've been driving around campus doing my patrols, I haven't even noticed anyone with them," said Kris Bartschi, ISU Public Safety.
But, Harward said it's a nationwide silent protest.
"We have 28,500 members nationally. 3,000 we know will participate in 350 campuses," said Harward.
One of those other members is Todd Itami.
"I believe in personal freedoms, personal rights. I'm a big advocate of the second amendment," said Todd Itami, Senior at Idaho State University.
The University said while supporting the students 100 %, they'll maintain current policies.
"We want the safest and most secure campus. We would implement this, but not the way to go right now," said Dr. Lee Krehbiel, Interim Vice President for Idaho State University Student Affairs.
He said majority of students wouldn't want a policy change and feel safe not having guns on campus.
However, members of the SCCC disagree.
"Those with licenses don't pose a threat to society, why not allow them on college campuses?" asked Harward.
Harward said he'll continue fighting for a change.
Students will be protesting throughout the week at Idaho State University. For more information about the SCCC, log onto their Web Site at http://concealedcampus.org/.
