TO THE EDITOR:
I gather from Ms. Noonan’s letter (“More guns won’t solve the campus’ safety issues”, Mar. 30) that she has not achieved a good grasp on what American values are in her time here. She cannot understand the importance of any amendment in the Bill of Rights if she suggests we reevaluate our commitment to the Second. If we did so, what would be stopping us from “reevaluating” the freedom of speech allowing her to write her letter or any other of the rights that makes America unique? There is no “absurdity” in the debate over guns on campus taking place. UNC is a place where we are supposed to support open discussion of issues.
I am also shocked to find someone in discomfort because we believe in the right to defend ourselves (and others). The possibility of a tragic event happening at UNC is not as rare as one might think. As an out-of-state student, I was shocked last year to find out on national news about the shooting at the University of Alabama in Huntsville — 15 minutes from where my family lives.
If such an event can happen at small schools like that, and at large schools like Virginia Tech and the University of Texas, it surely can happen here. Maybe the next episode of someone driving through the Pit involves shooting in a classroom — we don’t know. I do know that, should the worst happen, I want to be able to defend myself.
Grant Anastas-King
Co-President
Tar Heel Rifle and Pistol Club
