In the weeks following the emergence of the #NeverAgain movement, the determination and activism of high school students have left many—including scholars and politicians—deeply impressed. For those unfamiliar, this movement arose in response to the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on February 14, 2018, where 17 lives were lost and 14 others were injured by an armed assailant wielding an AR-15. Among the deceased, 14 were teenagers, and the student survivors have taken a stand, advocating for reforms to prevent future tragedies. Their mission centers on gun control and addressing the significant influence of the National Rifle Association (NRA) on policy decisions.
While mass shootings are not a new occurrence, this time, the discourse around gun violence is being led by the very youth who have endured such trauma. As a parent, the fear of a similar incident occurring at my daughter’s school weighs heavily on me. My efforts to understand this issue have led me to explore various facets of gun violence—from America’s gun culture and toxic masculinity to campaign financing and mental health stigma. The accessibility of firearms is a critical element in mass shootings, making gun control a logical starting point in our quest for solutions. However, it is essential to recognize that this is a public safety issue extending beyond school grounds, affecting churches, theaters, concerts, malls, and more. Safety must be prioritized for all.
The significant lesson I’ve gleaned from this remarkable group of young activists is that our children are observant and learning from our actions. It is incumbent upon us to guide them in a manner that fosters pride in our parenting.
Recently, I learned that one of the leaders of #NeverAgain is the son of an advocate for children with special needs, particularly in training law enforcement on how to engage with this demographic. This background undoubtedly shapes his leadership qualities within the movement. I commend the parents and caregivers of these young advocates; the political socialization of our youth is crucial in molding the leaders of tomorrow. The courage and strength displayed by these students serve as an empowering reminder of the impact of our guidance.
As an advocate myself, I have involved my daughter in my efforts from a young age. When she was just three years old, she helped me assemble survival kits for homeless youth, learning about empathy and community service. Just weeks ago, on the eve of Valentine’s Day—one day before the Parkland tragedy—her teacher requested that valentines not be personalized to save time. However, my daughter expressed her desire to write each friend’s name, insisting that it was important for them to feel special. I could not discourage her genuine intention, and I allowed her to proceed. I later informed her teacher of my daughter’s thoughtful decision, and she supported it.
My daughter is only five years old, yet she demonstrates that our kids are not just watching but actively learning from our behavior. This is the invaluable lesson I’ve gathered so far, and I anticipate many more insights from our youth as the movement evolves. I will carry this lesson forward in my advocacy and parenting.
As for the ongoing struggle for gun control, I refuse to accept a world where our children live in fear, worrying that they could be the next victims of violence. The anxiety and distress that children experience due to these threats are unacceptable. The anguish felt by the families of victims is a pain that no one should endure. The survivors from Parkland are our children, and it is our duty to support their quest for a safer future, free from fear for themselves, for our children, and for generations to come.
As parents and caregivers, we must remember: they are watching us, and they are learning. These are the future leaders we are shaping.
In addition to this discussion, if you’re interested in further exploring parenting resources, you may find it helpful to check out this article on home insemination kits. Additionally, for more insights into the topic of reproductive health, Intracervical Insemination serves as an authoritative source. For those navigating pregnancy, March of Dimes offers excellent resources.
Summary:
The #NeverAgain youth-led movement exemplifies the power of young activists in advocating for gun control and societal change. As parents, we must recognize the impact of our actions on our children, shaping them into empathetic and engaged leaders. The movement serves as a call to action, reminding us to foster a safer, more supportive environment for future generations.