The March For Our Lives movement is far from over, thanks to the dedication of 50 high school students from Wisconsin. This past Saturday’s event was powerful, but a group of determined teens is setting out on a 50-mile journey from Madison to Janesville, the hometown of U.S. House Speaker Paul Ryan.
In an inspiring display of activism, these students plan to cover approximately 13 miles each day over the course of four days, resting at local high schools along their route. They aim to arrive at Traxler Park in Janesville by March 28. This march is not just a physical challenge; it symbolizes the four-day waiting period they are advocating for gun purchases, underscoring their commitment to keeping the dialogue around gun control alive.
Katie Thompson, co-founder of the 50 Miles More movement, expressed the urgency of their mission: “We understand how quickly the media and politicians can shift their focus away from the impact of gun violence. Having grown up amidst school shootings and inaction, we refuse to let history repeat itself.”
With each mile, the students are sharing the names, ages, and stories of children who have fallen victim to gun violence on social media, ensuring their memories are not forgotten. “We will not allow Parkland to be just another incident where kids are lost and then left behind by those in power, who offer only empty ‘thoughts and prayers,’” stated co-leader Max Carter. “We are holding elected officials accountable, starting with Paul Ryan, who has the authority to enact real change. If he and others do not respond, the youth of America will demand reform at the polls this November and beyond.”
Amidst their serious mission, the students find moments of joy, reminding us that they are still young people fighting a battle they should never have to face. They have called on Ryan, who received significant funding from gun rights organizations during the 2016 election cycle, to reconsider his relationship with the NRA and recognize the impactful work being done by these young advocates. As of now, Ryan has remained silent on the recent marches.
These courageous students want him to know that their patience is wearing thin, and they expect action on their behalf. Let’s hope he hears their message loud and clear.
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Summary
A group of 50 Wisconsin high school students is embarking on a 50-mile march to advocate for gun control and ensure that the conversation surrounding gun violence continues beyond the March For Our Lives event. They aim to hold politicians accountable, particularly U.S. House Speaker Paul Ryan, while sharing the stories of children lost to gun violence.