We, the undersigned students, faculty, staff, and concerned citizens, urge Florida International University (FIU) to amend its weapons policy, Firearms and Dangerous Weapons Policy #1710.135, to explicitly allow the possession of non-lethal self-defense tools such as pepper spray and Tasers on campus. This policy change is necessary to uphold student safety and empower individuals to protect themselves in life-threatening situations.
Under the current policy, all individuals on FIU property are broadly prohibited from possessing “dangerous articles,” including electric weapons and devices. Although exemptions exist for law enforcement, faculty conducting research, and certain other limited cases, students and staff are left defenseless in emergencies involving threats to their personal safety. FIU spans multiple campuses, including the Modesto A. Maidique Campus and the Biscayne Bay Campus, both located in urban areas with their own unique safety challenges. Miami-Dade County crime reports indicate that instances of theft, assault, and sexual violence remain a concern, particularly in areas adjacent to university grounds. In fact, campus crime data reveals that at least 15 reported incidents of assault and robbery occurred on or near FIU properties in 2024.
Non-lethal self-defense tools are proven to deter attackers and offer a critical means of protection in emergency situations. Studies show that in over 90% of encounters where pepper spray is used, the victim escapes unharmed, underscoring the life-saving potential of these tools. To address these concerns, we propose that FIU’s Policy #1710.135 be amended to authorize the possession of non-lethal self-defense tools such as pepper spray, Tasers, and other compact, non-projectile devices for personal protection. Individuals should not be required to register or seek pre-approval for carrying these tools, and clear guidelines should be established to ensure their use is limited to defensive purposes. Furthermore, individuals residing in campus housing should be permitted to securely store these tools in their rooms to ensure accessibility during emergencies.
By adopting these changes, FIU would join other leading institutions such as the University of North Florida and Grand Canyon University, which have successfully implemented similar policies without compromising campus safety. Allowing non-lethal self-defense tools reflects FIU’s commitment to fostering a secure learning environment where students can thrive without fear.
We urge your administration to take immediate steps to revise Policy #1710.135 and enable students and staff to exercise their fundamental right to self-defense. This action would not only enhance safety on campus but also demonstrate FIU’s dedication to student well-being and individual rights. Together, we can create a safer, more empowered FIU community.
We, the undersigned students, faculty, staff, and concerned citizens, urge Florida International University (FIU) to amend its weapons policy, Firearms and Dangerous Weapons Policy #1710.135, to explicitly allow the possession of non-lethal self-defense tools such as pepper spray and Tasers on campus. This policy change is necessary to uphold student safety and empower individuals to protect themselves in life-threatening situations. Under the current policy, all individuals on FIU property are broadly prohibited from possessing "dangerous articles," including electric weapons and devices. Although exemptions exist for law enforcement, faculty conducting research, and certain other limited cases, students and staff are left defenseless in emergencies involving threats to their personal safety. FIU spans multiple campuses, including the Modesto A. Maidique Campus and the Biscayne Bay Campus, both located in urban areas with their own unique safety challenges. Miami-Dade County crime reports indicate that instances of theft, assault, and sexual violence remain a concern, particularly in areas adjacent to university grounds. In fact, campus crime data reveals that at least 15 reported incidents of assault and robbery occurred on or near FIU properties in 2024. Non-lethal self-defense tools are proven to deter attackers and offer a critical means of protection in emergency situations. Studies show that in over 90% of encounters where pepper spray is used, the victim escapes unharmed, underscoring the life-saving potential of these tools. To address these concerns, we propose that FIU’s Policy #1710.135 be amended to authorize the possession of non-lethal self-defense tools such as pepper spray, Tasers, and other compact, non-projectile devices for personal protection. Individuals should not be required to register or seek pre-approval for carrying these tools, and clear guidelines should be established to ensure their use is limited to defensive purposes. Furthermore, individuals residing in campus housing should be permitted to securely store these tools in their rooms to ensure accessibility during emergencies. By adopting these changes, FIU would join other leading institutions such as the University of North Florida and Grand Canyon University, which have successfully implemented similar policies without compromising campus safety. Allowing non-lethal self-defense tools reflects FIU’s commitment to fostering a secure learning environment where students can thrive without fear. We urge your administration to take immediate steps to revise Policy #1710.135 and enable students and staff to exercise their fundamental right to self-defense. This action would not only enhance safety on campus but also demonstrate FIU’s dedication to student well-being and individual rights. Together, we can create a safer, more empowered FIU community.