Rep. Ellison meets with Minneapolis students to discuss gun violence
Rep. Keith Ellison, D-Minn., met with hundreds of Minneapolis high school students Thursday, after some students across the district staged a walkout over gun violence.
The school shooting in Parkland, Fla., on Feb. 14 inspired hundreds of students across the country to walk out of school during the last week to call on Congress to enact stricter gun control laws.
Ellison said he reached out to some of the schools involved in the walkout, including Washburn and South high schools in Minneapolis.
In a crowded auditorium at Washburn High School, Ellison took questions from students and said he is hopeful they can create the changes they are seeking.
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"They're passionate, they're well-informed, and they don't know that it 'can't be done,'" Ellison said. "They don't recognize the limitations adults see so often."
School counselors were also on hand to talk with students about any fears or concerns.
Students like Washburn senior Ben Perry shared their determination to keep using their voices.
"I'm not afraid and I know we've had so many issues here in the past and it seems frustrating we haven't had change," Perry said. "But I am optimistic that we're seeing students standing up for what they believe in and for the safety of our peers."
Another national school walkout is expected on March 14, one month after the Florida school shooting.