Actions

Grief to action: Marjory Stoneman Douglas students force change in one month

Posted at 3:06 PM, Mar 14, 2018
and last updated 2018-03-14 19:20:21-04

In the days following the Parkland shooting, students at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School turned their grief into action.

FULL COVERAGE: Parkland school shooting

Looking back at the last month is tough for seniors Briana Valli and Noah Damiani.

"It's crazy because it flew by," said Noah.

"Longest month and the shortest month," said Briana.

"Putting this anger, putting this sadness into something that can create change," added Noah.

Change is a word we've heard often this past month. This time was different.

The students called for action met with lawmakers and did not give up.

"Definitely made a lot of progress," said Briana.

Their voices ultimately got lawmakers to pass the first gun control measure in Florida in 22 years.

Governor Rick Scott signed the bill on March 9th.

"Yes I do think we accomplished a lot," said Noah.

Their teachers were behind them every step of the way.

"Turn something like this into a positive. Can't be prouder of them," said Darren Levine.

They made a change, but for many it's not enough.

"That's why I want to go to DC," said Noah.

All signs now point to the March for our Lives. Their focus continues to be what they say is inaction on gun control.

"Leaving guns out of it is not going to solve this issue," said Noah.

This movement does not appear to be going away and students like Briana and Noah have the motivation to keep going.

"On the walls at Douglas, be the change you wish to see in the world, that's literally written," said Briana. "All our students walk by that quote. We're not going to sit down and let this happen somewhere else."