As a high school student, I constantly dread the day when I hear gunshots in my school and when my worst nightmare becomes a reality. Although some might find it unnecessary to have such morbid thoughts, I believe that since school shootings are becoming so common, we are forced to constantly be ready.
Gun violence in schools has become one of the most pressing, controversial issues in today’s society. According to the non-profit organization Everytown for Gun Safety, a total of 65 shootings have occurred on campuses this year as of Oct. 4, 2018. The total number of the shootings has matched last years’ total.
Everytown for Gun Safety defines a school shooting as “any time a firearm discharges a live round inside a school building or on a school campus or grounds.” This definition also applies to attempted or completed suicides and accidental discharges.
Focusing on shootings with motivation to cause harm to students on campus, the total numbers are extremely high and action needs to be taken by our legislature, and by the youth.
During the Cold War era, children had to be taught how to detect the sounds of bombs and had to practice how to react to abrupt bombings. Now, children are being going taught the sounds of gunshots and how to recognize a school shooter situation.
From constantly reading about different school shootings around the world, I have learned that the problem is uniquely American. Our nation’s total number of school shootings is higher than any other country, and makes me feel more embarrassed for our our country than I have ever felt. The fact that our federal government can sit back and watch these shootings take place while solely offering their thoughts and condolences is repulsive. Action needs to be taken, and it needs to be taken now.
As the future of our society, students need to come together and fight for stricter gun laws to protect ourselves and the generations to come. We need to remember the lives that have been lost, and honor them by advocating for a better future.
As a member of Generation Z, I recommend we start advocating for a better tomorrow by voting, and taking action. Voting is the most important thing we can do to make real change. By voting in new representation for our government, the new officials can start making a difference.
Since voting only occurs if you are 18 years or older, younger people can help make a change by advocating in their communities and schools. Students can organize events, such as marches or walk-outs to spread an effective message. Spreading the word throughout different communities will help encourage more young people to want to make a difference for the sake of their future.