We, the undersigned, urge Houston Christian University to allow students to carry pepper spray for self-defense on campus. In an era where sexual assault and serious violence remain pressing concerns, it is essential that students have the means to protect themselves. While Houston Christian University fosters a community rooted in Christian values, the reality is that not everyone in the surrounding area shares these same principles. The unfortunate truth is that violence and assaults can occur anywhere, and it is our responsibility to ensure that students are not left defenseless.
Pepper spray is a proven, non-lethal tool that can deter attackers and give potential victims the critical seconds they need to escape a dangerous situation. For many students, especially women, the ability to carry pepper spray is a simple but effective measure to enhance their personal safety. While the university undoubtedly prioritizes the safety of its students, campus police cannot be everywhere at once, especially in moments of immediate danger. Self-defense is a right, and students should not be denied the ability to protect themselves simply because of where they attend school.
We recognize that Houston Christian University is a faith-based institution committed to fostering a safe and nurturing environment. However, the values upheld within the university walls do not necessarily extend beyond them. The potential for harm exists, and it is unjust to leave students vulnerable when a simple solution is readily available.
We call on President Robert B. Sloan to take immediate action to revise the university’s policies and allow the carrying of pepper spray on campus. By making this change, Houston Christian University will not only empower its students to take control of their own safety but also affirm its commitment to their well-being in a meaningful and practical way. This is about protecting the lives of students and ensuring that every member of the HCU community feels secure in their ability to defend themselves.
We, the undersigned, urge Houston Christian University to allow students to carry pepper spray for self-defense on campus. In an era where sexual assault and serious violence remain pressing concerns, it is essential that students have the means to protect themselves. While Houston Christian University fosters a community rooted in Christian values, the reality is that not everyone in the surrounding area shares these same principles. The unfortunate truth is that violence and assaults can occur anywhere, and it is our responsibility to ensure that students are not left defenseless. Pepper spray is a proven, non-lethal tool that can deter attackers and give potential victims the critical seconds they need to escape a dangerous situation. For many students, especially women, the ability to carry pepper spray is a simple but effective measure to enhance their personal safety. While the university undoubtedly prioritizes the safety of its students, campus police cannot be everywhere at once, especially in moments of immediate danger. Self-defense is a right, and students should not be denied the ability to protect themselves simply because of where they attend school. We recognize that Houston Christian University is a faith-based institution committed to fostering a safe and nurturing environment. However, the values upheld within the university walls do not necessarily extend beyond them. The potential for harm exists, and it is unjust to leave students vulnerable when a simple solution is readily available. We call on President Robert B. Sloan to take immediate action to revise the university’s policies and allow the carrying of pepper spray on campus. By making this change, Houston Christian University will not only empower its students to take control of their own safety but also affirm its commitment to their well-being in a meaningful and practical way. This is about protecting the lives of students and ensuring that every member of the HCU community feels secure in their ability to defend themselves.