By: Kyle Davidson
Ever since the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas last month the country has been abuzz with calls for gun control reform. During such a tragic time many students and teachers are showing solidarity with those affected by the shooting by organizing walk outs to encourage action on these issues. These walk outs are generally 17 minutes in length to honor the 17 victims of the shooting in Parkland, Florida.
Numerous organizations have worked together along with the victims to organize national walk out days, the first of which took place on March 14th, and one other will take place on April 20th. While the date may seem a bit inappropriate to some, this date is actually the anniversary of Columbine, which gives the walkouts a deeper meaning. With the plans for these events generating a lot of buzz there are many contrasting opinions surrounding these events.
On the 14th many students gathered together on the football practice field to honor the one month anniversary of the shooting. Students gathered together and linked arms in a circle while the number 17 stood at the center, as a reminder of the victims. Seniors Josh Jacobson, Jacob Caurdy, and Izzy Glaub worked to organize the event, so that students of all beliefs had a safe place to protest gun violence.
“You know, school does have tests and homework and that’s a big part of school, but events like this, this is what changes society. Moments like this are what make history, and it’s amazing to be a part of it. I’m just happy to make a small difference,” Caurdy said.
However not all students participated for their own reasons, and many classes carried on as usual. Some students protested the walk out in their own way, by handing out information about gun control, or having open conversations about the issue.
“The problem isn’t with guns, it’s that we defunded mental health institutions,” senior Seamus Lake said.
When asked about the event, administration said that the student body showed “A great voice of unity,” and that ultimately the role that they played was one of “Making sure the students were safe, managing, and supporting students’ decisions.”
Ultimately, regardless of your views on gun control and the second amendment the importance of this event is the conversation it is generating. Now is the time to discuss change and whether or not you feel it is necessary. Silence only breeds silence. Dialogue leads to change.