STORRS, Conn. -- A weeklong empty-holster protest began Monday on two Connecticut college campuses.

Coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the Columbine shootings, supporters said the protest expresses their rights to carry guns if they have pistol and concealed weapons permits. They said they should have the right to carry the guns so they feel safe.

Those opposed to the idea said having guns on campus would create an even more dangerous environment.

"We want the right to defend ourselves in an emergency," said student Philip Axelrod.

Axelrod said he's walking around with the empty holster on his hip in silent protest against campuses as gun-free zone.

"By having it as a gun-free zone, it becomes a target," he said. "We're not saying arm everyone; not saying everyone should be carrying a gun."

Axelrod, at UConn, and a student at Central Connecticut State University said they hope to raise awareness about the cause: Students for Concealed Carry on Campus.

Letting people on campus arm themselves would act as a deterrent for any would-be shooters, Axelrod said.

Others believe that's the wrong way to go.

For information on both sides of the issue, visit the Web sites for Concealed Campus or Students for Gun-Free Schools.