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Rep. Keith Ellison, D-Minn., met with hundreds of Minneapolis high school students Thursday, after some students across the district staged a 

, on Feb. 14 inspired hundreds of students 

 during the last week to call on Congress to enact stricter gun control laws.

When the kids act like adults, the adults push back

GOP ices gun restriction bills at Minnesota Capitol

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.

"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.

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Nina Moini

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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."


U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison speaks to students at Washburn High.

Rep. Ellison meets with Minneapolis students to discuss gun violence

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