MARQUETTE -- Guns aren't allowed on many college campuses across the nation.  But a group of students is hoping to change that through protests next week, including one on the campus of Northern Michigan University.

Empty holsters on their belts...it's how students with the NMU Sportsmen Gun Club plan to protest state law and campus ordinances that prohibit students from carrying concealed weapons on campus.  It's part of a national movement next week across college campuses.

NMU doesn't allow any weapons on campus, and people have to be 21 to qualify for a concealed weapons permit.

"Students protesting for the same rights that they have in the general public, carry over to campus," said NMU Gun Club President, Fredric Gygi.

The protest, which runs next Monday through Thursday, is creating buzz between people who support concealed weapons on campus and those who don't think they should be allowed.

"It's been really helpful to get their point of view," said NMU Gun Club member, Katie Reed.  "I think it's going to be help me understand where the faculty are coming from if they talk to us about it."

Some students don't mind the protest.

"I think students have a right to voice their opinion on campus," said Matt Brooker.

But he does object to students carrying concealed weapons on campus.

"I'm not a fan of concealed carry," he said.  "I don't think guns have a place on campus."

Last week the administration sent out an e-mail to faculty, telling them about the empty holster protest.  At least 10 reportedly e-mailed back, saying they would feel intimidated and simply walk out or cancel class.

But the student group says both the administration and public safety gave them the OK to hold the protest.

"We don't anticipate any problems," said Assistant Director of NMU Public Safety, Mike Bath.  "The group has been really good to work with."

So far, 20 members of NMU's Gun Club are signed up for the protest, and they expect that number to grow by Monday.