The movement is now: A call to action on gun violence
By Rep. Al Lawson
Special to the Outlook
In the aftermath of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School tragedy where 17 students and educators were killed, Americans are demanding action from the government to prevent future mass shootings. Gun violence should not be tolerated and standing idle is no longer an option.
It is truly unfortunate we are at this place again, and these senseless tragedies are happening far too often. I know the Parkland community will never be the same. Those who lost a brother, sister, daughter or son will never be the same.
No parent should have to lose a child this way. I have grandchildren who are school aged. They go to school to learn and receive an education — not to look over their shoulders and live in fear. No person should ever feel unsafe when stepping into a school, church or home.
In gun violence, Florida ranks No. 26. Parkland was the deadliest school shooting since a gunman took 26 lives at Sandy Hook Elementary in Newton, Conn. in 2012. This is unacceptable for our society and we must take steps to alleviate the number of lives destroyed due to gun violence.
School safety is important now more than ever. We have called for gun reform and will not rest until there are appropriate measures in place. I have co-sponsored several bills in Congress in an effort to reduce gun violence.
It is vital that we expand federal background checks to cross-reference any form of mental illness. Congress must take this step immediately. We must ensure those who are suffering from mental illness cannot present an imminent threat to others or themselves.
I have also worked with Congressman Ted Deutch (FL-22) on legislation that aims to increase the age of those who are able to purchase a firearm from 18 to 21.
I was humbled to attend the Never Again Rally at the Capitol on Feb. 21 and engage with students. It is powerful to see these students working collaboratively in this movement to bring forth change. I assure you their voices were heard. As I stood on the steps of the old Capitol, looking out at the crowd of the thousands of students from across this state, it was awe-inspiring.
Gun violence should not be tolerated, and standing idle is no longer an option. It is unfortunate we are at this place again, and these senseless tragedies are happening far too often.
The nation is watching and waiting to see how we handle this. It is disheartening that it took a tragedy such as the one in Broward County for eyes to be opened, but it is my hope that we will respond swiftly to ensure these incidents never happen again.
U.S. Rep. Al Lawson represents Florida’s Fifth Congressional District, which stretches from Gadsden Co. to Jacksonville.
