URGENT UPDATE: Students across Southern California are taking a stand against gun violence today, joining a nationwide walkout that reflects a growing demand for change. This united action comes in the wake of the tragic shooting at a Minneapolis Catholic school last week, which left 2 students dead and 21 others injured.
At John Burrows High School in Burbank, students marched over a mile to Burbank City Hall as part of this powerful protest. Their chants and signs delivered a stark message to lawmakers: “I don’t want to die in my classroom” and “No more bulletproof backpacks.”
Students expressed their fears and frustrations about the reality of school shootings, a threat they have been aware of for most of their lives. “That’s the last thing you want to expect is to walk into school and see your teacher, see your friends, and something happens like a mass shooting,” stated Ella Herran, a passionate participant in the walkout.
The Students Demand Action initiative has sparked similar protests at schools nationwide, emphasizing the urgent need for legislative action. Eyewitness News covered the event live, capturing the emotional weight of the moment as students voiced their demands for safer learning environments.
As students across the country participate in these walkouts, the collective call for change is louder than ever. In addition to Burbank, protests were reported at the Orange County School of the Arts in Santa Ana, demonstrating the widespread concern regarding gun violence in educational settings.
The urgency of today’s protests highlights the ongoing fear students face daily. “This is all I can do before I can vote is I have to get out there, and I have to let people know how I feel,” remarked another participating student, underlining the importance of youth activism in this critical moment.
As this story develops, communities across the nation are watching closely. The impact of these protests could shape future discussions around gun control and school safety. Stay tuned for updates as students continue to demand action and accountability from their leaders.
