NEW YORK (Eagle News) – It’s a cry for help for high school students. A long-standing issue that needs a resolution from Congress. Students voicing their needs and concerns regarding gun violence in schools throughout the nation.
In schools and public places in New York and New Jersey, students rallied and held peaceful demonstrations Wednesday morning as part of National School Walkout Day. This march was to honor the 17 students and faculty members of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School killed last month in Parkland, Florida.
New York City Board of Education Schools Chancellor, Carmen Farina sent out a letter to all students and families to support the nation’s campaign to end school gun violence. Students and faculty at Information Technology High School in Queens, New York walked around the Long Island City neighborhood to participate in the campaign.
At Robbinsville High School in Mercer County, New Jersey, students united at 10 a.m. to march along the football field for 17 minutes. A program was conducted where several students read the names of the 17 who were killed, spoke on what impact the shooting had on them, and talked about what changes could be made for better gun control laws in the country.
“We took matters in our own hands,” said Robbinsville High School Senior Class President, Mubeen Ayuby. “Whatever lawmakers are doing is not working. Students [are] not going to keep sending condolences, [but rather] do something about it. It’s time to take matters in our own hands.”
Nicole Alagar, an English teacher at the high school was moved by the actions done by the students.
“As a high school teacher, it was inspiring to see students rise up in passionate action over an issue that has long been overlooked,” said Alagar. “They chose to rise above the widespread misconception that today’s youth are apathetic to the plights of the world and prove their naysayers wrong. I was most touched by our student leaders who pointed out that America’s youth is taking action in response to the inaction of those who have the power to make change. Seeing my students up there, using their voices to make such bold statements and demands for the sake of their safety and their lives, it’s a testament to the positive things happening in schools today, and why we need to continue to keep schools safe to keep this type of learning active.”
Government officials also joined in the peaceful protest with students and families. Among those who joined in the peaceful demonstrations in New York was City Council member, Ben Kallos.
Throughout the nation, students will continue to stand up and take action against gun violence, to demand for change and learn in a safe community.
(Eagle News Service, Tennie Sumague, EBC New York Bureau with contributions from Joanne Blanco Soriano)