Over the weekend, Lucas Ramirez, the father of a victim from the Parkland tragedy, dedicated his time to creating a poignant mural honoring his son, Miguel. With a can of black paint in hand, he meticulously crafted a portrait of his 17-year-old son, accompanied by the powerful phrase: “We Demand Change.” A video capturing the mural’s creation quickly gained traction online, serving as a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive gun control measures.
This mural was part of the “Parkland 17” initiative, an exhibition held in Miami that commemorated the lives lost during the horrific shooting in Florida. Organized by professional basketball player Marcus King, the event also functioned as a grassroots movement, providing phone booths for attendees to reach out to their lawmakers regarding gun safety legislation. At the heart of the event was Ramirez, with his deeply emotional mural symbolizing the loss he and many others have endured.
Members of the local community were invited to add their signatures to Ramirez’s mural, and many, as noted by student Jamie Lee, shared messages filled with hope and solidarity. The emotional weight of the mural left a profound impact on viewers, making it difficult for many to hold back their tears.
Lee later recounted to CNN that Ramirez worked in silence, fully immersed in the task at hand. “He didn’t say a word; you could feel the intensity in his breathing as he painted,” she shared. “While it’s not visible in the footage, he also took a hammer to create holes in the wall and placed flowers in them—an act of love and remembrance.”
This mural is just the beginning of Ramirez’s mission to advocate for legislative change. In an interview with The Daily Herald, he expressed his transformation into a “visual activist,” committed to supporting the voices of Parkland students demanding accountability. “I have embraced this new role, and I intend to fulfill it until we see real progress,” he stated. “I stand with the youth advocating for answers to the ongoing issues.”
As for the “Parkland 17” exhibition, it will be extended beyond its original schedule, allowing additional family members to showcase tributes to their loved ones. “We’re open to adding more pieces this weekend,” said curator Emma Fields. “Families might want to display items like college acceptance letters or school colors as a way to honor their children.”
Kudos to Ramirez and all the grieving families and students who continue to advocate courageously for meaningful change.
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Summary
Lucas Ramirez, father of Parkland shooting victim Miguel, created a mural depicting his son with the phrase “We Demand Change.” This artwork was part of the “Parkland 17” exhibition, aimed at raising awareness for gun control. Attendees were encouraged to add messages of support to the mural, emphasizing community solidarity. Ramirez plans to continue his activism alongside Parkland students, seeking legislative reforms. The exhibition will remain open longer to allow other families to honor their loved ones.