2018 has already been a stressful year in regards to gun violence. The latest mass school shooting occurred on t February 14. This was the eighth mass school shooting of this year alone.
The only thing that made this shooting different from past ones is the response. The surviving students of this tragedy created a group and called themselves "#NeverAgain." You might recognize the names Cameron Kasky and Emma Gonzalez. They, and others have been working long and hard to make the March for Our Lives possible, which is happening tomorrow in DC at 12 PM between 3rd and 12th street.
Who is getting Involved?
Whether it be through donations or participation, many celebrities have made their voices heard. So far, George Clooney and his wife Amal have donated $500,000. They also say they will attend the March for Our Lives in the District of Columbia.
After hearing about their donation, Oprah Winfrey decided to donate the same amount, claiming "George and Amal, I couldn’t agree with you more. I am joining forces with you and will match your $500,000 donation to ‘March For Our Lives."'Gucci has also donated this amount. Lin Manuel-Miranda and Ben Platt have recently released a mash-up of one of the songs from their two musicals "Hamilton" and "Dear Evan Hansen." A percentage of the money they make from this track will be donated to March for Our Lives.
What can you do?
It has frankly been incredible to witness young student fight for changes that will, in the long run, better society. Not only is it inspiring, but it is a wakeup call for those who maybe thought gun violence wasn't a problem before now. So how can you be part of this necessary change? According to Glamour Magazine, there is plenty you can do to support March for Our Lives.
According to Glamour Magazine, there is plenty you can do to support March for Our Lives. You can donate directly to March for Our Lives on their website.If you can't donate, spread awareness! Put the link in your Instagram bio. Make people care like these students did. If they can do it, you can do it.
Another thing you can do is sign the petition for March for Our Lives on their website.
It's super easy and super quick! If you have done these two things but still feel as if you can help more, call your elected officials and tell them to safely act in regards to gun reform. If you are nervous and don't know what to say, there's a script on Giffords so you don't have to worry about stumbling over your words.
If you are nervous about talking on the phone or maybe can't, feel free to text them! Send "STUDENTS" to 64433 and you will be updated on the gun reform movement and be provided more ways to get involved. One of the most important things you or someone you know can do is help the families whose loved one(s) were killed in the most recent shooting. Find and follow their GoFundMe pages and figure out more ways you can help keep this movement going.
