Porter stands with students in the fight against gun violence

Today, Sept. 5, State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis) joined hundreds of high school students as they gathered at the Statehouse to demand gun reform legislation. This rally was part of a national walkout organized by Students Demand Action after a school shooting in Minnesota last week resulted in the tragic death of two children and injured 18 others. Firearms are the leading cause of death for people under the age of 17. 

“Today, I had the honor of participating in a rally against gun violence with students from across Indianapolis, including Shortridge, Brebeuf and North Central High Schools,” Porter said. “I am proud of this generation for their spirit and tenacity. They continue to show up and fight for a better world. Even though they’re sick and tired of deadbeat policy makers who fail them, every single time.

“When Columbine happened, they said, ‘never again.’ When Sandy Hook happened, they said, ‘never again.’ When Parkland, Virginia Tech and Uvalde happened, they said, ‘never again.’ But this has continued to happen again and again and again. 

“Our children fear for their lives while they sit in our schools. Young parents are sending their children to school with clear backpacks, and in some cases, even bulletproof vests. They have more active shooter drills than tornado drills. I cannot fathom what it’s like to grow up and see that someone your age was shot and killed in school on social media. 

“It’s past time for common-sense gun laws that protect our communities, to protect our kids. We are called not to love with our words, but through action and truth. Follow your promises with tangible actions.”