Students Speak Up

March For Our Lives Protest Creates Impact Against Gun Violence

The bitter chill in the streets of Washington D.C. is no match to the heat of 800,000 protesters. Young and old alike carry the neon signs that will be brought forth to the capitol building; a statement too bold for the government to deny.
    In light of the Parkland High School shooting, students took a stand across the nation to advocate for heavier gun restriction laws, creating a teenage-led “March For Our Lives” protest on March 24th. These rallies took place in over 800 different locations across the country, making quite an impact on lawmakers.
    “I think this movement helped make people realize what violence is at stake in our country and that we need to change it,” sophomore Mazzy Wilcox said.
    Organized by the surviving Parkland High School students, the march featured hundreds of thousands of citizens pleading for people to vote against unrestricted gun laws. The most prominent rally in Washington D.C. had students begging lawmakers to “protect our children,” one of these students being M.L.K.’s very own granddaughter.
    “The kids at Parkland have finally created a face for this generation, and it will make a difference,” junior Katie Gambrel said.
    With over 3,100 child deaths at the hands of firearms in 2016, this issue goes far beyond simple gun restriction. Students are calling for better mental health services, proper aid of abused and troubled youth, and more programs targeted at developing young minds.
    “I am a full supporter for ‘March For Our Lives’, and I will continue to support it by donating my time to the cause,” Gambrel said.

Taylor Trapp
Contributor