In a remarkable initiative, a group of teenagers from Parkland, Florida has embarked on a summer tour aimed at registering young voters and advocating for gun reform. These courageous individuals, who have already faced unimaginable trauma, are prioritizing activism over typical summer activities like working part-time jobs or enjoying time with friends. Instead of lounging by pools or heading to the beach, they are hitting the road with a campaign titled “Path to Progress,” which focuses on promoting necessary reforms to protect students and communities from gun violence.
Meet the Team
This tour is spearheaded by current students from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, including Alex Rivera, Mia Thompson, and recent graduates Ethan Smith and Sophie Lee, all of whom survived the tragic events of February 14, 2018, when a shooting claimed the lives of 17 people at their school. Over the course of 60 days, they will travel through 20 states, making 75 stops along the way. Their journey will kick off in Chicago on June 15, coinciding with the annual Peace March, before they fan out across the country to raise awareness and register young voters.
Targeting Change
The team aims to target locations where politicians have received backing from organizations like the NRA, which has historically opposed gun reform measures. They will also visit communities impacted by gun violence, amplifying the voices of fellow survivors. At each stop, the group will educate young people about the reforms necessary to safeguard their lives and encourage them to register to vote, highlighting whether local candidates support these measures or the interests of the NRA.
Inspiring Action
While it is disheartening that these young individuals must dedicate their summer to such critical issues, they approach their mission with enthusiasm and determination. There is hope that their actions will inspire the adults in power to take the necessary steps to address gun violence seriously.
Additional Resources
For those interested in exploring options for family building, including alternatives like home insemination, you can refer to this excellent resource on family building options. Additionally, if you’re looking to learn more about fertility support, consider visiting Make a Mom or Intracervical Insemination.
Conclusion
In summary, the Parkland teens’ summer tour serves as a powerful reminder of youth activism in the face of adversity, advocating for change while empowering their peers to engage in the democratic process.