URGENT UPDATE: Students across Southern California are taking a stand against gun violence, joining a nationwide walkout today, March 15, 2024. This powerful demonstration follows last week’s tragic shooting at a Minneapolis Catholic school, which left 2 students dead and 21 others injured.
In Burbank, students from John Burrows High School marched over a mile to Burbank City Hall, demanding immediate action to ensure their safety in schools. With chants echoing through the streets, they showcased signs with poignant messages like, “I don’t want to die in my classroom” and “No more bulletproof backpacks.”
The atmosphere was charged with urgency as students expressed their fears and frustrations. “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,” said Ella Herran, a student participant.
This movement is part of the larger Students Demand Action initiative, which has seen walkouts occur across numerous schools nationwide. Eyewitness News captured scenes of similar protests at the Orange County School of the Arts in Santa Ana, where students echoed the call for reform.
Students shared that the reality of school shootings has always been a part of their lives, and while they have become accustomed to it, they refuse to accept it as the norm. “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,” another student emphasized, highlighting the importance of their voices in this critical moment.
The urgency of this movement resonates deeply within communities, as students demand that lawmakers take action to prevent further tragedies. As protests continue to unfold nationwide, the call for change is louder than ever, and the eyes of the nation are focused on these brave young advocates.
Authorities confirm that these walkouts reflect a significant moment in the ongoing conversation about gun safety in schools. As students mobilize, the hope remains that their voices will lead to tangible policy changes aimed at ensuring their safety and well-being in educational environments.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops, and join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #StudentsDemandAction.