On December 12, 2011, the University of Virginia implemented policy SEC-030, which prohibits the possession of non-lethal self-defense tools such as pepper spray and tasers on university property. Despite revisions as recent as August 25, 2024, this policy still denies students, faculty, and staff their basic right to self-defense. This policy leaves members of the UVA community vulnerable, especially in light of increasing crime trends in Charlottesville and the surrounding area. According to the Charlottesville Police Department's 2023 report, crimes such as aggravated assault and robbery saw a 7% increase from the previous year. Campus areas such as poorly lit walkways and isolated parking structures remain high-risk zones where students are particularly vulnerable. Non-lethal self-defense tools like pepper spray and compact tasers are proven to deter attackers and reduce the risk of harm. Institutions such as the University of North Florida and Lindsey Wilson College have recently updated their policies to allow these tools, empowering their students while maintaining safety on campus. We demand that the University of Virginia amend SEC-030 to explicitly permit the possession of non-lethal self-defense tools, including: Pepper spray (up to 2 ounces) Compact tasers or stun guns that comply with Virginia state law These tools must be explicitly allowed for personal protection while prohibiting misuse for offensive purposes. The University of Virginia’s current policy undermines student safety and fails to align with the self-defense rights upheld under Virginia law. We, the undersigned, call for immediate policy reform to protect the UVA community’s fundamental right to self-defense.