In the wake of the recent March For Our Lives event, a determined group of high school students from Wisconsin is not ready to let the conversation about gun control fade away. Approximately 50 students are setting out on a 50-mile journey from Madison to Janesville, the hometown of U.S. House Speaker Paul Ryan, to emphasize their commitment to ending gun violence.
These young activists plan to cover the distance over four days, averaging about 13 miles daily, and they will be staying at local high schools along the way. Their arrival at Traxler Park in Janesville is scheduled for March 28. This march symbolizes the four-day waiting period they are advocating for gun purchases, a measure they believe is essential for ensuring public safety.
Voices of the Youth
Katie Miller, a co-founder of the “50 Miles More” initiative, expressed their resolve: “We recognize how swiftly the media and politicians often shift focus away from the tragedies caused by gun violence. Growing up amid school shootings has shown us the dire consequences of inaction, and we refuse to allow this to happen again.”
As they march, the students are actively using social media to raise awareness. Each mile they complete corresponds with a tweet sharing the story of a child who lost their life to gun violence, ensuring that their voices and those of the victims are not forgotten. Co-leader Alex Rivera stated, “We will not allow Parkland to be another event that fades into silence, leaving only empty words of ‘thoughts and prayers.’ We are holding elected officials accountable, starting with Paul Ryan, who has the authority to enact meaningful change. If he and others do not respond, the youth will make their voices heard at the polls this November and beyond.”
Joy Amidst the Struggle
While their mission is serious, the students are also incorporating elements of joy into their journey, reminding us that they are still young. They are calling on Ryan to cease accepting funds from the NRA, an organization that contributed nearly $172,000 to his campaign during the 2016 election. His silence following the recent marches has not gone unnoticed by these passionate youths, who are determined to make their demands clear.
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In summary, the Wisconsin students’ 50-mile march represents a powerful statement against gun violence, invoking both the stories of victims and a call for legislative change from elected officials. Their efforts highlight the importance of persistence in advocating for a safer future.