Open Carry, Close Discussion at University of Houston

The new “open carry” law in Texas mandates all public universities to allow students, faculty, staff and visitors to openly carry weapons. These schools are upset over the requirement. Meanwhile, private schools, even conservative ones such as Baylor, have all prohibited open carry. University of Houston is gearing up for open carry by advising faculty: “Be careful discussing sensitive topics,” “drop certain topics from your curriculum,” do “not ‘go there’ if you sense anger,” and “limit student access off hours.” Will grading curves be relaxed or ended to avoid volatile situations? Will placement offices be guarded to deter students who have an axe to grind with that part of campus administration? How will contentious issues be discussed as long as students are armed in the classroom? UH administration is not wrong for this advice—Texas lawmakers, however, have made UH more dangerous for campus safety—and more dangerous for expressing ideas. Thanks to Janet for the tip!