Why This Matters:

Recent deadly incidents — including the Brown University classroom shooting and today’s Pawtucket ice rink shooting — show that students, staff, and the public are at risk when weapons can be brought into schools, arenas, and large gatherings. No one should have to fear for their life while attending a school event, game, or public venue.

The Problem:

Many schools and public event venues lack effective security measures to prevent weapons from entering. Without proper screening, anyone with a gun, knife, or other dangerous object can enter and put lives at risk. Waiting for tragedy to strike is unacceptable.

 

The Solution:

We demand that school boards, arena managers, and event organizers implement airport- and arena-style security, including:

• Walk-through metal detectors at entrances  
• Bag checks for students and visitors   
• Handheld wands for secondary screening
• Visible, trained security personnel
• Security procedures scaled for large gatherings

 

Legislative Support / Why Now:

This year in the Rhode Island State Legislature, three bills are being pushed to increase school safety and law enforcement response in the event of an emergency:

S2053, S2209, and S2280 provide for emergency response committees, law enforcement funding and training, and the arming of campus police.

We encourage petition signers to contact their local State Senator or Representative to ask them to support these school safety bills. Together, we can ensure that schools, arenas, and public events are safer for students, families, and communities.

Call to Action:

Sign this petition to demand immediate action from school boards, arena managers, and public event organizers. Students, families, and the public deserve safe environments. Safety is not optional — it is necessary.

 

Petition started by: A concerned Rhode Island resident