TROY, Ala. (TROJANVISION) — Opinions clashed but respect remained as students gathered in Patterson Hall during a recent mock debate.

Tuesday night, Nu Theta’s political awareness and involvement committee prepared a series of questions to give students the chance to share their perspectives. The event was designed to encourage open dialogue and provide students with a chance to engage in civil discussion on issues affecting both campus life and national politics.  

One topic that sparked strong reaction was gun control laws in the United States. 

“I think when it comes to the purchasing or the requirements to obtain those machines, that’s what I like to call them, I think it could be a little stricter,” said Audreonna Lindsey, a senior psychology major from Elba, Alabama. “I believe that too much of anything can be poisonous for us.” 

Kyle James, a sophomore graphic design major and Montgomery, Alabama, native found himself on the opposite side of the aisle from Lindsey.  

“The laws are pretty strict and straightforward,” James said. “Obviously, there are illegal ways to get everything, but people break the law all the time. That shouldn’t mean making the laws stricter for the people who need to use them. 

“I feel like stricter guns laws would make people want to break the law even more.” 

Although Lindsey supports stricter gun laws, she acknowledged situations where carrying guns is appropriate. 

“It would benefit us more than it would hurt us to provide stricter gun laws,” Lindsey said. “However, when it comes to the safety of our homes and schools, it would be wise for individuals to carry guns.” 

Nu Theta Chapter President Asia Turner, who is a senior nursing major from Abbeville, Alabama, said the goal of the debate was not to determine a winner, but to create space for thoughtful conversation. Turner also said she hopes students leave the event feeling empowered to speak up. 

“I want people to take away that everyone has a voice,” Turner said. “I think that’s what this debate is all about. We need to let people know that it’s okay to bring up topics that need to be talked about.

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“Everyone has an opinion and they all matter.” 

After the debate ended, students continued conversations outside the forum, discussing how they could apply what they learned to future campus involvement and civic engagement.