In just a few short weeks, the #NeverAgain movement has captivated scholars, politicians, and the general public with its remarkable achievements. For those unfamiliar, #NeverAgain is a youth-led initiative born from the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, where 17 individuals lost their lives and 14 others were injured on February 14, 2018. Among the deceased, 14 were students, and the young survivors of this harrowing event are now vocal advocates, pushing for reforms to prevent future tragedies.
This is not the first instance of mass shootings claiming innocent lives, but it marks a pivotal moment where the youth themselves are at the forefront of the national gun debate. As a concerned parent, I find myself grappling with the fear that my child’s school could be next. This fear has driven me not only to learn about active shooter protocols at my daughter’s school but also to delve into the multifaceted discussions surrounding gun violence. My perspective now acknowledges the myriad factors contributing to this crisis, including America’s gun culture, toxic masculinity, political financing, corporate greed, extreme individualism, mental health stigma, and easy access to firearms.
When it comes to mass shootings, guns are the primary weapon involved, underscoring the urgent need for stricter gun control measures. This issue extends beyond the school environment; mass shootings have occurred in various public spaces, such as churches, theaters, and shopping malls. Thus, we need comprehensive solutions aimed at ensuring public safety, a principle the Parkland youth survivors clearly understand.
From this inspiring group of young leaders, I have gleaned a crucial parenting lesson: Our children are observant and impressionable. We should strive to instill values that will make us proud. I recently learned that one of the #NeverAgain leaders has a parent who advocates for children with special needs, illustrating how home influences shape future leaders. This reinforces the importance of how we socialize our children politically; they are learning from our actions and attitudes.
As an advocate, I have involved my daughter in my efforts from a young age. At just three years old, she helped me assemble survival kits for homeless youth, learning about compassion and community in the process. Just weeks ago, on the eve of Valentine’s Day, my daughter’s teacher requested that students not address cards to specific friends for efficiency. However, my daughter insisted on personally addressing each card to make her friends feel valued. I couldn’t dissuade her and instead encouraged her choice. I informed her teacher about our decision, and she responded positively, trusting my daughter’s judgment.
At just five years old, my daughter embodies how our children observe and learn from us. This invaluable lesson will undoubtedly guide my parenting and advocacy as the #NeverAgain movement continues to unfold. I refuse to accept a future where our children live in constant fear of violence. The emotional toll on our children and the heartache suffered by the families of victims must end. The survivors of the Parkland shooting are our children; we must support their pursuit of a fear-free educational environment for themselves, for our future generations, and for all children.
As parents and caregivers, let’s remember: they are watching and learning. These children are our future leaders.
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